SKY has announced it has closed its local video news website based in the North East.

The broadcaster set up the Sky Tyne and Wear pilot in February 2012, taking on around 14 journalists to cover news, Premier League football and non-league sport in the region.

The site was free, and its digital journalism was designed to attract a different audience from that served by local newspapers and regional television news.

Highlights of its coverage included the flooding which badly affected Tyneside last year and the outbreak of serious disorder when Newcastle United lost 0-3 at home to arch rivals Sunderland in April.

Visitors to the website today found, instead of the home page for news stories, a message from the bosses at Sky to announce it has closed.

The statement said: ''We have greatly valued the interest of everyone who has come to the website and mobile app since we launched in February 2012.

''We hope you have enjoyed the news, sport and events service we've provided.

''Sky Tyne and Wear was set up as a pilot project, and with your help we have learned a great deal about local news and views.

''Now the pilot period is over, we have conducted a thorough review and the service is now closed.

''It's been a great couple of years with many memorable moments which we have shared together. We are genuinely sorry to be signing off.

''Of course, Sky News and Sky Sports will continue to cover stories in the Tyne and Wear region and we hope you will continue to use and enjoy them.

''For now, from the Sky Tyne and Wear team, it's goodbye.''