ONE of the main architects of the plans for the regional assembly will be visiting the region next week - and he wants to take questions about the plans from readers of The Northern Echo.

In early November, the people of the North-East and Yorkshire will take part in a referendum, which could have a big effect on their lives.

They will be voting on whether they want a directlyelected regional assembly and a big change in their council set-up, whether the north wants its own parliaments to speak on its behalf and take decisions on its behalf, and whether it will be money well spent.

Such is the scale of the decision people will be asked to make that The Northern Echo is calling the lead-up to polling day The Great Debate.

Nick Raynsford, Minister of State for Local and Regional Government, is visiting Darlington next Wednesday to explain the plans and answer questions.

So, whether you are cynical, sceptical or convinced, if there are any aspects of the plans you would like explained more fully, Mr Raynsford is the man to ask. Be it broad brush stuff or minutiae about how things might work, we'll put the questions to him on your behalf.

Either post your questions to Nick Raynsford, The Northern Echo, Priestgate, Darlington DL1 1NF, or e-mail them to echo@nne. co. uk. They must reach us by noon on Tuesday.

You can also go along to the event in Darlington town centre, on Wednesday, between 4.30pm and 6pm. Spaces are limited and must be booked in advance. Call 0191-202 3760 for tickets.

Mr Raynsford said: "This is a chance for residents in the Darlington, South Durham and Teesside area to hear the facts and have their say."