A programme to improve links between the public and private sectors has won a Government minister's backing as it celebrates its first year.

David Miliband, the Government minister for communities and local government, praised the North-East People Exchange Programme, which sees people from the public sector working in the private sector, and vice versa.

He said: "The public and private sectors have much to offer each other and sharing experiences, and increasing awareness across both sectors is an important part of that process."

A celebration will be held at Northumbrian Water's headquarters in Pity Me, County Durham, tonight.