THE age of television phone polls has become a turn-off. From Big Brother to Pop Idol and its seemingly endless spin-offs, millions of pounds continue to be pocketed by executives on the back of cheap TV.

The fact that a programme based on talentless people doing nothing in particular for weeks can inspire millions of votes, is one of life's great mysteries.

But at least with the BBC's hit series Restoration, there is a real value.

Tonight sees viewers being asked to vote for two historic sites in the North-East as they compete for millions of pounds of restoration cash.

While the 600-acre Ravensworth Estate, near Gateshead, has clear merits, we hope that Harperley Prisoner of War Camp in Weardale emerges as the winner.

Wear Valley's economy has suffered more than most in recent years as a result of the crisis in manufacturing, and investment in the dale's clear potential as a tourist attraction would be very welcome indeed.

The development of Harperley as a visitor centre has already been identified as a key part of Weardale's regeneration plans, and success in the BBC competition would be a much-needed change of fortune for the area.

With our fingers firmly crossed for Harperley, we congratulate the BBC for coming up with an innovative idea which will have a positive impact on historic sites across the country.

Long after the likes of Big Brother's Jade Goody have faded from the public consciousness, our heritage will always hold a genuine fascination for generations to come.

Moving message

AFTER all the buck-passing of recent weeks, the raw, human tragedy which led to the Hutton Inquiry was laid bare yesterday.

Dr David Kelly's wife and daughter spoke movingly about the end of a distinguished man's life.

"My heartfelt wish is that people will learn from the circumstances surrounding my father's death and show more compassion and kindness in future to those around them," said Rachel Kelly.

It is a message which applies not just to the Government and the BBC, but to all of us.