Teesside Airport bosses admitted last night they were facing a major battle to win over the public after the controversial name change to Durham Tees Valley was finally agreed.

The airport's six local authority shareholders took only 15 minutes to sanction the move, ending months of speculation and heated debate.

They approved the change - suggested by Teesside's new strategic partner Peel Airports - with a majority vote at a meeting in Middlesbrough yesterday.

Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council was the only authority to oppose the name, insisting that Durham International Airport would have been more recognisable.

Durham Tees Valley was the only name put forward to shareholders, after officials dismissed options such as Newcastle South and James Cook International Airport.

Teesside managing director Hugh Lang praised the decision, saying a renowned city name would be crucial in attracting passengers from across Europe.

But he said: "We know that the public, who have a long-established and strong feeling of pride in the airport, have made their voice heard in this debate.

"I certainly recognise that it is now up to us to demonstrate to them that this is the right way ahead, not only for the future of the airport but the economic regeneration of the whole area."

Critics, including Middlesbrough mayor Ray Mallon, had blasted the suggestion that Teesside was not high-profile enough - particularly after US President George Bush flew in aboard Air Force One last month.

Councillor Eric Empson, chairman of Redcar and Cleveland's cabinet, said: "As a shareholder, we have made our views known about our opposition.

"We accept the vote and look forward to seeing the airport operators provide positive proof that the name change will work. We will be watching developments with great interest."