As two-and-a-half years of speculation into the Prime Minister's resignation were put to an end yesterday there was a familiar sight on Trimdon Village green. The World's media had gathered once again, but could this be for the last time? Chris Fay reports.

PROTESTORS, supporters, observers and reporters rubbed shoulders outside the now world famous Trimdon Labour Club.

They were all there for one thing - to hear Tony Blair publicly state his intention of resigning.

"I just think it's important to be here and for the children to be here too," said Sheila Doherty, headteacher of St William's RC Primary School, Trimdon Village. "Whether you're a Blair supporter or not, he has been good for Sedgefield and good for the village, it's a momentous occasion."

There can be no doubt that Mr Blair has put Sedgefield and Trimdon on the map, even if that map is not quite to scale.

"I didn't think Trimdon would be as small as this. It's very small but it is very British too," said Tou Moko, a Nippon TV journalist, from Tokyo, Japan.

"I would have to admit that being from Sedgefield has not done the group any harm," said Zak Newton, from Sedgefield Against War.

"When we go on rallies and demonstrations the banner always catches a bit of attention because of the association with Tony Blair. But he has neglected local and national issues and he has totally misjudged the feeling on the war. Apart from that, in Sedgefield, we have had no real representation in Parliament for ten years."

During his speech, Mr Blair did make reference to some of his perceived mistakes - which did not go unnoticed on either side of the fence.

"Some of the things he said were quite humbling, but there were plenty of successes to point out as well," said 23-year-old Labour Party member David Mather.

But the media attention that came with the PM has never concerned Paul Trippett, Labour Club manager and Durham county councillor.

"It's been marvellous having him here. Back in the early days, before he became PM, he was often in here having a pint and he was so approachable.

"Obviously, we saw less of him as he got busier, but he has never neglected the area.

"Whatever happens, he will always be welcome in the club - and he doesn't have to bring his wallet either."