ONE of the North-East's most famous sons is helping the region fly the flag as England gear up for the European football championships.

Former England manager Sir Bobby Robson yesterday handed over a cross of St George to Councillor Alan Fenwick, chairman of Durham County Council.

Coun Fenwick's son, Terry Fenwick, was a defender in the England squad managed by Sir Bobby in the 1986 World Cup, which was ejected from of the competition by Argentina through Diego Maradona's controversial "Hand of God" goal.

Sir Bobby, now manager of Newcastle United, was born in Sacriston, near Durham. The son of a miner, he was raised in the nearby village of Langley Park.

He presented the flag before jetting out to work as a TV pundit in Portugal for Euro 2004.

His gift will be flown from the top of County Hall, Durham, for as long as England remain in the competition.

A cross of St George was visible on the building during the last World Cup, until England lost to Brazil in the quarter finals.

Coun Fenwick said: "It was marvellous of Sir Bobby to make time to give us the flag before jetting off to Portugal himself.

"My only hope is that we can fly it for the duration of the tournament and thereafter, to celebrate an England victory in the final on July 4."