PRIME Minister Tony Blair carried out a busy schedule of events in County Durham yesterday.

After launching the NetPark initiative, a science and technology business park near Sedgefield, he visited The Orchards, a residential development for older people in Brandon, near Durham.

Mr Blair then opened a housing project in Thornley, east Durham, which has seen an estate previously dominated by boarded-up houses transformed by new investment.

His final engagement was a visit to a SureStart unit, which provides support for parents of young children, in Beaumont Street, Ferryhill.

Earlier, he formally opened the Newton Aycliffe Youth Centre.

Mr Blair toured the centre and spoke to young people taking part in activities including football, the Duke of Edinburgh award scheme and basic skills training to help gain employment.

He tried out one or two of the activities on offer, pool and glass engraving among them.

Mr Blair said opening the centre was one of the better parts of his job.

He said: "This is a very important statement on behalf of the community. It shows the community is thinking of young people and is prepared to put investment their way."

Syd Howarth, chairman of the youth centre, said: "We're delighted and honoured that our MP has come here on one of his rare visits to the region.

"He has an enormous workload and carries out national and international duties. We recognise the sacrifice he makes and we're grateful for the time and trouble he takes."