Dozens of low-flying oval shaped objects have been spotted in and around the Tilery estate area of Stockton.

Most folk scramble, fry, boil or poach them. In Stockton, they fling them. Eggthrowing is usually reserved for election campaigns.

Teesside’s last remaining Tory MP, Stockton South’s James Wharton, can breathe easy for the time being as these eggs are destined for pastures new.

I refer to the filming of Channel 4’s most talked about documentary series, Benefits Street. The production crew are back in town to film the latest series in Tilery, Stockton, and this time it’s official. But how the tide has changed. Not so long ago, angry residents on Teesside were chasing a Channel 4 film crew out of town, using a variety of egglobbing techniques.

Now, espite widespread opposition from MPs, council leaders, and community groups, it seems several locals have made it crystal clear that photographers and reporters are not welcome.

Eggs do run ¬ and sadly on this evidence it looks like local reporters will have to do the same.

Stephen Dixon, Redcar.