THESE are momentous days for the Teesside steel community as the rebirth of the Redcar blast furnance draws near.

It has been a triumph for the workers, management and unions, who have come together to fight for a future for Teesside steel-making under the new ownership of SSI.

We also welcome the demonstration of support shown by the Prince of Wales who re-visited the plant yesterday, ahead of the furnaces roaring back to life on December 8.

Prince Charles had last visited the site in May last year when it was being mothballed by the previous owner Tata Steel and many thought it would never produce steel again.

Thankfully, there were enough key people unwilling to admit defeat and the prince returned in much more optimistic circumstances yesterday.

What was particularly gratifying was that he was able to meet youngsters taking part in the Redcar Steelworks Cadets Scheme, an idea he aired during his previous visit.

The scheme is aimed at firing the interest of local young people in manufacturing.

It is an initiative which we whole-heartedly support and hope it can be replicated in other areas of industry.

It was also fitting that Prince Charles should meet Sheryl Petite, the partner of inspirational union leader Geoff Waterfield, and the couple’s son Wills.

Mr Waterfield died suddenly earlier this year and it is right that his integral role in saving the plant was given royal recognition yesterday.

Roll on December 8.