THE Northern Echo today launches a campaign aimed at putting the region at the top of the list of potential locations for thousands of Government jobs.

The campaign, backed by business and civic leaders, comes in the wake of the body blow announcement that British American Tobacco (BAT) plans to close its Darlington operation.

Up to 500 jobs are due to go at the Rothmans plant with 10,000 more jobs in the supply chain affected.

Last night, unions pledged to "leave no stone unturned" in their bid to reverse the decision while council chiefs also demanded showdown talks with BAT bosses. But today another fight begins.

As Chancellor Gordon Brown unveils plans to modernise Whitehall - pushing power out to the regions - The Northern Echo puts Darlington's name forward as a prime location for Government offices.

Mr Brown has ordered senior civil servant Sir Michael Lyons to carry out an independent review to assess whether such a move will improve public services and save the taxpayer money.

The Northern Echo says that Darlington is progressive, has affordable business land and buildings, quality housing and good schools.

Darlington has also excellent transport links as a key port of call on the East Coast Mainline.

Add to this Teesside International Airport, a few miles down the road, which is on the brink of £20m investment, and Darlington's proximity to the A1.

Darlington Borough Council leader John Williams said: "The Government should give us a call - we would be delighted to help them move here."

Alistair Arkley, chairman of the Tees Valley Partnership, said: "The best solution would be in Darlington because it is the best location."

Sir Michael will present his findings to the Chancellor and Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott by November, He says understanding the strengths of possible new locations will be the key to the outcome.

Meanwhile, Councillor Williams last night confirmed that he and Darlington MP Alan Milburn were seeking a meeting with senior BAT management to see whether the Rothmans plant can be saved.

The council will also be commissioning an independent economic assessment of the impact of any closure.

Gerry Hunter, regional organiser with union Amicus, said: "We are exploring every avenue and we will leave no stone unturned.

"We have already asked BAT if there is anything that can be done to reverse this decision and we await their reply." Comment - Page 10