THE value to the economy of the eight most research-intensive universities in the Northern Powerhouse region is almost double that of the entire Premier League.

The N8 – a group of eight universities including Durham and Newcastle – which include Durham and Newcastle, contribute £6.6 billion to the Northern economy, along with 119,000 full time jobs, according to research by the body.

Professor Stuart Corbridge, vice-chancellor of Durham University, said: “This report demonstrates the very significant positive contribution of Durham University and its partner institutions across the North of England, helping to create jobs and prosperity in our local communities.

“Durham University is committed to working with businesses, residents, the voluntary sector, staff, students and other partners to ensure we deliver the best for our city and region.”

Professor Koen Lamberts, vice-chancellor of the University of York and chair of N8, called for Prime Minister Theresa May to increase investment in infrastructure and innovation in the North.

He said: “This research paints a compelling and comprehensive picture of the contribution our universities make to the Northern economy, creating jobs and prosperity for people from all walks of life. It makes abundantly clear that N8 universities are not just world-class research institutions, but also major economic enterprises, generating significant revenue and economic activity and driving inward investment.

“The Government’s Northern Powerhouse agenda can and should play a major role in creating an environment that enables our universities to generate even more benefit to the Northern and wider UK economy.

“Such benefit can only come, however, if there is further investment in innovation in the North: in inward investment, in transport and infrastructure.”

The report also highlights the 13%, or £127m, of competitive research funding for the N8 universities coming from the European Union.

Professor Lambert added: “We believe the Government must act swiftly to address the potential gap in research funding that might arise through our withdrawal from the EU.”