THE region's newest tourist attraction looks likely to stay in place until the New Year.

Gateshead Council says it is close to reaching agreement with operators of the Gateshead Eye - the giant ferris wheel on the banks of the Tyne - to keep the attraction in place until January.

The wheel was installed during July's Tall Ships Race celebrations and was due to be removed last month.

But it has proved so popular that civic leaders now want to keep it in place until after the Christmas and New Year holidays.

The wheel was closed to the public last night because the council could not conclude legal agreements with the operators in time, but it is expected to reopen next week.

Councillor John McElroy, Gateshead Council's cabinet member for culture, said: "The Gateshead Eye has added a new element to Gateshead Quays and proved very popular with visitors, especially during the Tall Ships festival.

"Its owners are clearly impressed by what we have to offer in Gateshead and we are delighted they are keen to remain on Gateshead Quays until the New Year.

"I am hopeful that we can agree terms and re-open the Eye in early October."