THE most advanced training centre for media students in the UK was officially opened yesterday.

Arts Minister Estelle Morris launched the £9m Media Centre at the University of Sunderland.

The building, which will form part of a centre of excellence for the arts, is filled with the same equipment in offices of newspapers, TV and radio stations across the country.

It aims to give students a headstart when they enter the fiercely competitive careers market.

There are more than 4,500 square metres of studios, workshops and editing suites in the centre, along with facilities for TV and radio production and journalism.

There are also units to encourage graduates to set up business on Wearside.

The university's vice-chancellor, Professor Peter Fidler, said: "This is an important development for the university, the city and the wider region.

"As well as providing skilled graduates for the rapidly developing creative industries, we strongly believe that the new centre can act as a catalyst to help foster new job creation."

The facilities include a 200-seat cinema, three radio stations, two TV and video studios, four journalism suites and a 20-station digital audio post- production area.

During her visit to the region, Ms Morris also unveiled a 90-metre art installation at the Gateshead public transport interchange.

She also witnessed the signing of a pledge by the National Portrait Gallery to bring more exhibitions to the Museum and Winter Gardens, in Sunderland.