You know a town is really on the map when Starbucks sets up camp. In July, Middlesbrough saw the arrival of not one, but two market leading coffee houses in the town centre.

Is this a sign that "cafe culture" a way of life warmly embraced by our more cosmopolitan neighbours of Newcastle and Durham, has finally arrived?

Over the years, Middlesbrough has actively sought to reinvent itself - growing and adapting to change - making it one of the most desirable places to live and work in the UK.

The town has taken steps to further improve its appeal and prosperity, creating a real vibrancy among the people there.

In the past, the town has narrowly missed out on being awarded city status, but Middlesbrough and the Tees Valley's endless enthusiasm to achieve this standing has seen the recent launch of Tees Valley Unlimited.

This economic partnership has been set up to drive the future of the Tees Valley Core City Region.

The business community is vital to the realisation of the region's core city status and is wholeheartedly in support of this economic partnership.

Furthermore, it is keen to work with the public sector to achieve greater economic performance.

A sustainable economy and a thriving urban community requires solid, long-term investment.

We need to build on our economic assets, such as the world-class chemicals industry, development of our airport and award-winning port.

We also need to commit to investing in the skills of our people, those who will lay the foundations of the region's future.

All in all, Middlesbrough has achieved a tremendous amount in its efforts to regenerate its old industrial heritage into a thriving sophisticated town, but it still has a little way to go to reach the realms of city status.

Whatever the distance that it has yet to travel to achieve this standing, there is no doubt the grit and determination of the people and businesses of Middlesbrough will see it through.

* Martyn Pellew is chairman of the North-East Chamber of Commerce in the Tees Valley.