DEVELOPING links between the North-East and northern Germany could bring millions of pounds of EU funding to both areas, it was claimed last night.

Tourism and development representatives from the Hannover area are visiting the region to forge business links with the North-East.

The visit is to coincide with the launch of low-cost flights between Newcastle and Hannover this week, linking the two cities in just under 90 minutes.

Hapag-Lloyd Express is flying between the cities three times a week.

One NorthEast and Hannover development agency Hannover Impuls are planning to work together in research and development, which could attract EU funding designed to link different countries in research projects.

Hannover, which is developing into a major commercial hub similar to Newcastle, has major industries including life sciences, biotechnology and the automotive industry.

Both areas are keen to develop business links and executives in Hannover hope to attract companies from the region to its many trade fairs.