The launch of Ben Houchen's parmo protection campaign ignited debate across the Tees Valley. Here are a selection of comments on the issue:

Geoff Johns, director of Jeff the Chef, said: "I'm over the moon with this campaign, to get the parmo protected would be fantastic for me and would promote the profile of the area. I wouldn't be where I am today without the parmo. It should be called the Boro Parmo, it trips off the tongue."

Rory Todd said: "In a time of growing wealth inequality, increased use of foodbanks and misery caused to ordinary folk by Tory austerity mentality, it is good to see where the mayor's priorities lie."

Leigh Henderson said: "The story of the parmo deserves recognition as not only a local dish but as an example of multicultural progression through wartime entrepreneurial vision."

Kaylee Anderson said: "What with the DPO being an EU thing, this is an even bigger waste of time. Considering how many North-Easterners voted leave, why would they be bothered by the EU providing protection to the parmesan?"

Lee Edward Armstrong said: "It's hardly an historic food of age and tradition. It's a late night drunken snack and arguably the variation in area is a good thing. Big waste of time, even if it could get approved."

Mel Thompson said: "Of course it should be protected, before the Southern softies find it and try to change its name."

Chris Watson said: "Is this what we are paying the mayor for? He must have more pressing problems to solve."

Pauline Lightfoot said: "The mayor promised to do this in his campaign in the mayoral elections, it was even printed in the leaflets that came through the door. At least he kept his promise, I suppose."