COUNCIL bosses are calling a major conference in the wake of recent job losses across the region.

Leader of Sedgefield Borough Council Brian Stephens yesterday pledged the loacl authority's support for The Northern Echo's 'Working for the Future' campaign saying it had come at a crucial time for County Durham.

He said: "It is vital that we are all pulling in the same direction to work for the benefit of Durham.''

Coun Stephens has already set the wheels in motion for a one day conference that will bring together local authorities and government agencies.

He said: "We are still stunned by the after effects of the Black & Decker announcement and that is why I have called this conference.

"All our partners and local agencies will be invited. We hope it will be opened by a prominent North East MP.''

He said the event, which will take place in the Sedgefield Borough area, will act as a sounding board to come up with an action plan for the future of the County.

He said: "Unlike other regions, Durham relies heavily on the manufacturing industry and now is the time to diversify and bring in more high-tech based industries, widen education and enhance tourism.

"As politicians we have our ideas and visions, but now we want to accumulate the visions and ideas of the people of Durham and see if we can reach a common ground for the future.

"Once this is resolved we can go to the Government and ask for the necessary financial resources to be put in place.

"We have seen other areas benefit from regeneration and now I believe it is Durham's long awaited turn to reap similar rewards.''

Calls of support for the campaign which was launched yesterday have been pouring in from throughout the area.

Leader of Wear Valley District Council Olive Brown said: "I fully support what The Northern Echo is doing. These job losses have been a devastating blow.''

MP for Bishop Auckland Derek Foster said: "I fully support it. The Northern Echo is to be commended on its determination to find job opportunities.''

Mark Lloyd managing director of County Durham Development Company said: "We applaud The Northern Echo's commitment to County Durham's greatest asset - it's people.''

Read more about the Working for a future campaign here.