The Misuse of Drugs Act came into force 50 years ago, but some campaigners say it should be changed.

Bangladesh-born Habib Rahman says he is proud to represent "safe and tolerant" Newcastle.

The Japanese car giant is reportedly in advanced talks to build a gigafactory in Sunderland.

Relive the action from day one of seven County Championship matches, including the Roses match between Lancashire and Yorkshire.

Liberal Democrat Amanda Hopgood is the first woman leader in Durham County Council's history.

Jimmy Peacock died when he was struck down while walking in Sunderland last week.

Restrictions are not being imposed on Indian variant-affected areas, the government says.

PD Roxy found perfume hidden beneath a car shortly after the stash was stolen.

Sunderland release seven players, including captain Max Power, after they were beaten in the League One play-off semi-finals by Lincoln.

Having carried his father's play-off medal with him all season, Swansea City's Freddie Woodman aims to claim one of his own.

Freddie Woodman's loan spell at Swansea from Newcastle ends at the Championship play-off final against Brentford on Saturday, but the goalkeeper hopes to return.

The government says there are no travel restrictions but is still asking people to cut it down.

People are also asked not to go into or out of places hardest hit by the so-called Indian variant.

The partnership follows Labour's first loss of overall control at Durham County Council in 100 years.

Back-rower Callum Chick signs a new two-year deal at Newcastle Falcons, to remain with his hometown club.

North Tyneside Council said it was not made aware of government advice urging people not to travel into and out of the borough unless necessary after it was hit by the Indian coronavirus variant.

The area is one of several affected across the country and the guidance was published online without an announcement on Friday.

In a statement released this morning, Wendy Burke, director of public health for North Tyneside, said: “Last Wednesday it was announced in Parliament that North Tyneside, along with five other areas in England, would be subject to enhanced testing and vaccinations.

“When the announcement was made there was no indication it would come with any additional restrictions for North Tyneside or the other areas.

“We understand that, later, government guidance around travel in and out of North Tyneside was posted on the government website. This has not been accompanied by any communication to the local authority, local residents or businesses.

“We have already queried this with the Department of Health and Social Care to seek clarification. We will continue to work with government on our enhanced testing and vaccination plan which is now in place.”

It comes after more than 600 people were tested on the first day of new coronavirus surge-testing centres opening on North Tyneside at the weekend.

Image source, North Tyneside Council

Sean Ivey fought back at youths plaguing his village but then saw his home burnt down.

Paul Conlon pleads guilty to manslaughter after he attacked his dad Harry on Christmas Eve.

A secondary school in Middlesbrough is closing for the rest of the week following a number of positive Covid cases.

Students at The King's Academy in Coulby Newham will continue their learning online after Middlesbrough Council decided to close the school because positive results have been found in all year groups.

A mobile testing unit will soon be set up in the grounds with all students and staff encouraged to have a PCR test.

Principal David Dawes said: "We've acted quickly in response to a small number of cases. We will always put the safety of the wider community first."

Image source, Getty Images

The LNER service to London King's Cross struck the animal between Durham and Darlington.