HARTLEPOOL MP Peter Mandelson yesterday joined the board of the newly-formed Tees Valley Urban Regeneration Company.

The former minister was one of seven new appointments, including Middlesbrough Football Club chairman Steve Gibson.

The company was formed to promote investment in Tees Valley from national and international business.

The other appointments were: Alistair Arkley, chairman of Tees Valley Partnership; John Bridge, chairman of regional development agency One NorthEast; Middlesbrough Council's chief executive, John Foster; Michael Fox, deputy chairman of GTL Resources and Stockton Borough Council's chief executive, George Garlick.

Tees Valley Urban Regeneration Company chairman Peter Middleton said: "I am greatly encouraged that individuals of such significant standing and reputation are prepared to become involved in helping to ensure that the Urban Regeneration Company is able to make a real contribution to the regeneration of the Tees Valley."