Sunderland goes local

Undaunted by Newcastle/ Gateshead losing its Capital of Culture bid, Sunderland University is doing its bit to highlight the region by launching Britain's first degree in Northeast studies. Simon Henig, head of the programme, said: "The region is very dynamic at the moment and in lots of different areas."

The course will cover every aspect of life in the region from the start of industrialisation to the present day. Support has been raised from Sunderland City Council, One NorthEast, Beamish Museum, regional MPs and other local stakeholders.