SUPPORTERS of a campaign to bring train building back to the region are wanted for a photograph being taken today.

Campaigners will gather at Amazon Park, Newton Aycliffe, County Durham, at 11.45am to show their backing for a campaign to persuade the Government to award Hitachi the Intercity Express Programme contract.

The Japanese manufacturer has indicated it would build a factory at the park if it secured the deal to build high-speed trains.

In attendance for the photograph will be local MP Phil Wilson, Durham County Council cabinet member for regeneration and economic development Councillor Neil Foster, local councillors, and representatives from the North East Chamber of Commerce, Unite and Northern Trades Union Congress. Members of the public and businesses are also urged to attend.

Mr Wilson said: “This photo is a chance for local people to get in the picture regarding the importance of Hitachi, in a quite literal sense.

“We hope that many, many people will see how much it matters that Hitachi is granted the IEP contract next month. If this campaign comes to fruition, there will be huge benefits for thousands of local people, so please come and lend your strength to it.”

The photograph will appear in The Northern Echo on Monday.

On Tuesday, political, union and business leaders will travel to London to lobby ministers.

■ See The Northern Echo on Tuesday for an eight page supplement supporting the campaign.