THOSE who question the status of being European Capital of Culture should look closely at Glasgow.

The general perception of the Scottish city was of a rather drab urban sprawl, renowned for social deprivation rather than tourist attractions.

That image was transformed when Glasgow was named Capital of Culture in 1990, prompting an economic revival which today has made the city one of the most popular UK tourist destinations.

A similar fate awaits the British city which tomorrow is crowned European Capital of Culture 2008.

We stand foursquare behind the Newcastle-Gateshead bid. If successful, the bid will not only benefit the banks of the lower reaches of the Tyne, but will also create a new era of employment and economic opportunities for the whole of our region.

Those who have submitted the bid deserve credit for their vision and determination to succeed.

Win or lose, you only have to look at the progress that has been made along the riverside corridor of Newcastle and Gateshead to demonstrate the value of the bidding process alone.

The value of outright victory would be incalculable, and a cause for celebration throughout the North-East.

Other areas must not begrudge Tyneside its expected victory, but capitalise on its hard-earned success.

The accolade of European Capital of Culture will attract hundreds of thousands of extra visitors to Newcastle and Gateshead.

Other towns and cities should focus efforts on how to attract these tourists and encourage them to extend their stay in the region.

England expects

THE Football Association is right to take a firm stand against racism and hooliganism.

It is a pity that it has taken the threat of expulsion from Euro 2004 to prompt appeals from the likes of David Beckham, Michael Owen and Sven-Goran Eriksson.

Nevertheless, we agree with their message that thugs and racists cannot be tolerated in our society.

Such a stand against anti-social behaviour puts an onus on professional footballers to lead by example.

For the rewards available to them in modern football, the public has a right to expect nothing but exemplary behaviour both on and off the field.