MEMBERSHIP of the European Union will be placed under the spotlight in a debate by Gateshead councillors.

Gateshead Labour councillor Peter Mole, who will lead the debate, said: "Gateshead is directly benefiting from the United Kingdom's membership of the EU.

"We've seen great support from the EU for projects like Gateshead Quays. The jobs and economic benefits this brings are very welcome."

The debate will be held at the Gateshead Council meeting at 2.30pm tomorrow.

Coun Mole will be asking the authority to welcome continued work with EU institutions at local and regional level