The government's proposals are described as "a shambles" at a Transport for the North meeting.

The boss of Hays Travel - Dame Irene Hays - says it was "emotional" to receive her honour from the Queen at Windsor Castle.

She was awarded the title in recognition of her services to training, education and young people.

Image source, Hays Travel

She said: "I'm very proud personally and absolutely delighted on behalf of all the young people, all the apprentices and trainers I've had the privilege of working with over the past 40 years, this is as much for them as it is for me."

Hays Travel, based in Sunderland, famously came to the rescue of 2,500 staff who lost their jobs after the collapse of Thomas Cook.

Mrs Hays, whose husband died suddenly a year ago, was made a dame in the New Year's Honours.

Former Cardiff City, Swansea City and Portsmouth manager Frank Burrows, who played for Raith Rovers, Scunthorpe and Swindon Town, has died at the age of 77.

Robert Atkinson is jailed for dangerous driving 10 years after killing someone in a speeding car.

A couple and their nine children were living in a rat-infested house with no heating or hot water.

Unite union members in Stockton and Hartlepool had taken four days of action earlier this month.

Bath v Exeter, Bristol v Northampton & Wasps v Gloucester - listen to BBC radio commentary.

Newcastle United's Saudi Arabian-backed takeover has led to a "harrowing" few weeks for their LGBTQ+ fans group - with the scale of social media abuse leaving members on the verge of quitting.

Jack Payne strikes in stoppage time to seal Swindon's win at home to Hartlepool as the Robins move into the automatic promotion places.

Daniel Udoh's second-half strike helps struggling 10-man Shrewsbury come from behind to earn a draw with Sunderland.

Preston North End come from behind to shock Middlesbrough with two late goals at the Riverside Stadium.

Pete Molloy was also found to have "bullied and disrespected" two council officers.

The IOPC says there is not enough evidence of one theft and another has already been dealt with.

Tom Rodwell pleaded guilty to 10 charges against the women between 2017 and 2020.

The government department is closing two offices and relocating workers to a new base in Newcastle.

Kevin Wood, who was attacked while walking by a 10-person fight, was a "gentle man", his family say.