THE man who helped mastermind the regeneration of a neglected town is to pass on his knowledge to the next generation of businessmen.

Sir Leslie Elton, the former chief executive of Gateshead Council, has been appointed visiting professor at Newcastle University's Business School.

Sir Leslie, who retired from the council in March, oversaw Gateshead's regeneration strategy, including the creation of the MetroCentre, Angel of the North, Baltic arts centre, Millennium Bridge and Sage Gateshead music centre.

He was knighted in this year's Queen's Birthday Honours for services to local government.

His part-time duties at the university will include giving "masterclasses" for students taking a Masters in Business Administration. He will also deliver lectures and be involved in research.