THE BBC is launching a new weekly politics show for the region.

The half-hour programme Politics North will be shown on BBC One immediately after the Andrew Marr Show at 10am on Sundays, from this weekend.

Helen Thomas, director of BBC England, said: “What was clear from the general election is that while people are interested in Brexit, they’re also passionate about local issues."

Guests each week will include local politicians, industry leaders and experts.

“But it’s people who will be at the heart of this programme. What is firing up the audience, what are their concerns and what stories do they want to hear about how local services are delivered?” Ms Thomas said.

The broadcaster says the aim is to make sure the programme also covers the non-Westminster politics that happen in the villages, towns and cities across England. And it aims to engage the audience in conversations and offer longer form interviews and debates on digital platforms such as BBC iPlayer.

Tim Burke, editor of Politics England, said: “The programme should be cheeky without being rude, with penetrating but polite interviews and segments which engage in new, refreshing and fun ways.

“At the same time we should challenge the audience and broaden understanding of how local politics functions.”