Chris Mason
Political Correspondent

It is widely expected that Hartlepool will have a Conservative MP for the first time in more than 50 years when the by-election result comes in later.

It will be awkward for Sir Keir Starmer as Labour concedes another block in the so-called 'red wall' that has been bulldozed by the Conservatives since 2019.

Starmer has a tricky explaining job to do to members of his party.

And while it is just one by-election, it will contribute to changing the mood.

Crucially it will be hard, in a Westminster context, for Starmer to point to any sense of progress.

Fergus Hewison
BBC Newcastle political reporter

Labour avoids losing overall control of Sunderland City Council, but only just.

It finishes the night having lost nine seats.

The council political composition is now Labour 42, Conservatives 18 (up six), Liberal Democrats 12 (up four, UKIP three (no gains, not defending any seats).

Results and reaction from the Hartlepool by-election, PCC, council and Tees Valley Mayor counts.

Good morning and welcome to the start of our live coverage of the election results in the North East and Cumbria.

To start you off here is a round-up of what has happened overnight.

• The result of the Hartlepool by-election is expected to be declared shortly but Labour's shadow transport secretary, Jim McMahon, has already admitted defeat
• Labour have kept control of Sunderland City Council but lost nine seats
• Labour have also held Newcastle City Council, Gateshead Council and South Tyneside Council

Image source, PA Media

Newcastle owner Mike Ashley files a lawsuit against the Premier League and says it's time for "dark forces to step aside" regarding the club's takeover.

Mark Lawrenson takes on The Sherlocks drummer and Sheffield Wednesday fan Brandon Crook to make predictions for this weekend's Premier League fixtures.

The Food Standards Agency says the products are only available in Iceland stores.

All the action and reaction as Newcastle United thrash Leicester in the Premier League

Operator Nexus says the "crystal clear" footage will make it easier to identify troublemakers.

Tyler James paid an initial £400 fee for organising the event but has now received a £10,000 fine.

Listen to BBC radio commentary from Saturday's action in the National League.

James Rutherford is sentenced for the manslaughter of Andrew Saint in Bedlington last year.

Matthew Hedges says he is "still waiting for justice" after being imprisoned for spying in 2018.

Christopher Rawding siphoned off payments to the global sportswear brand while he worked for them.

Three men died and a fourth had to go to hospital after taking what is thought to be Spice.

Police and crime commissioners, councillors and elected mayors are all set to be voted in.

We take a look at the Covid safety measures in place at a polling station in Newcastle.