BUSINESSES and local authorities have joined together to promote art and creative talent in the region.

They have put together an exhibition to show the importance of art in economic development, regeneration, and social inclusion.

Art and Design Means Business runs from November 21 to November 29 at Centre Northeast, in Middlesbrough.

Organisers hope that the exhibition will put the region on the map as a centre of excellence for creative arts.

It will also promote links with industry by celebrating achievements of students studying art courses throughout the region.

Cleveland College of Art and Design will be one of the colleges exhibiting. Principal David Willshaw said: "We have so much talent in this area and we want people to stay here and learn, and also to encourage the creative talent and businesses working together to support the economic development of the region as a whole."

Major employers from creative industries across the UK will attend the exhibition