A marker stone, welcoming visitors to Hartlepool's Headland, has been unveiled.

The 9ft marker, in Northgate, is decorated with Hartlepool's seal on one side and the seal of King John, who granted a charter for town status in 1201, on the other.

The stone bearing the carved message welcome to the Headland celebrates the town's 800th anniversary.

A Government grant to the North Hartlepool Partnership helped fund the stone, which celebrates the heritage of the Headland area.

It is based on the original stonework of St Hilda's Church, which stands nearby, and was created after consultation with residents.

Pat Price, chairman of the Headland Town Council, said: "The timing of the construction of this fine gateway feature makes a fitting end to our 800th anniversary year."