TWO new airline services linking the North-East with the west of Britain will start next month.

Air Wales will today announce two scheduled domestic air services from Newcastle Airport, starting on December 8.

Daily direct return services to Liverpool John Lennon and Cardiff International airports will link the North-East with business hubs in the North-west and Wales, while a link to Plymouth City Airport via the Cardiff service will make the South-West easily accessible from Newcastle.

Mike Luddy, commercial director of Newcastle Airport, said: "We are delighted to be working in partnership with Air Wales to deliver this exciting new service, which will further enhance Newcastle International Airport's position as a key hub for the North-East business community.

"The new route offers exciting opportunities to further extend the reach of air travel between the region and other major business centres across the UK."

The fixed-rate flights are designed to appeal to business customers. All services will be on 50-seater ATR-2 aircraft.

Air Wales chairman Roy Thomas said: "We know the importance of good air links to businesses in the North-East, and we're confident that this new service will receive strong support from travellers in the region, and will open up countless opportunities for business in the area."