CAMPAIGNERS in favour of an elected regional government in the North-East met this week to drum up support.

Over 50 high profile people gathered at Durham County Cricket Club to check on progress of the Yes4thenortheast.

Key speakers included former MEP and businessman Alan Donnelly, Fiona Hall MEP and a video address from former athlete Brendan Foster.

Yes4thenortheast chairman Professor John Tomaney said: "Today was a great turn out with some of the most influential people in the region putting their shoulder behind the wheel of the campaign.

"We are gearing up the campaign for the autumn referendum and now is the time that all our supporters can make a positive contribution.

"There is still a long way to go but we are sure with this kind of support that the people of the region will deliver a resounding Yes vote.

"There are many, many other people waiting in the wings who could not be here today. We have now created a rainbow coalition of people who all say Yes to regional government for the North-East."

Guests included key business leaders, lawyers, public sector leaders, local Government representatives, MPs and people from the arts.

Many people have committed their time to helping the campaign to raise funds and develop its key messages and lobby for more powers.