THE President of Ireland, Mary McAleese, praised the efforts of the public sector and business community to work together to tackle urban decay.

Speaking at a breakfast meeting, Ms McAleese drew parallels between the work of Newcastle-Gateshead Initiative and Dublin.

She said culture-led regeneration had contributed to the wellbeing and growth of both areas.

Ms McAleese was guest of honour at the event, held in the Baltic Contemporary Art Centre, in Gateshead.

Sir Ian Wrigglesworth, chairman of Newcastle-Gateshead Initiative, said: "We are particularly delighted to welcome Mary McAleese, the President of Ireland, to Newcastle-Gateshead at a time when her own country's policy for the future is building bridges. It has been a great pleasure to share our successes in building bridges - in many more ways than just the literal sense.

"This visit has also provided the opportunity for us to discuss the hugely successful links between Newcastle-Gateshead and Dublin.

"An ever increasing number of Irish visitors are coming to Newcastle-Gateshead on a daily basis and we are delighted to welcome them to our city."