Dozens of leading businesses have signed up to the new government scheme today, taking the total number of Northern Powerhouse partners up to 31.
31 OCT 2016 | CHRIS SEEKINGS

The proposal put forward by the 2010-15 coalition government, and backed by new Prime Minister Theresa May, intends to back business growth across the North of England.
This includes investment in transport, backing for science and infrastructure schemes, as well as cultural and sports funding, particularly in the 'core cities' of Manchester, Liverpool, Leeds, Sheffield and Newcastle.
Chief secretary to the Treasury, David Gauke, said: "We are determined to create a Northern Powerhouse and are clear we must work closely with businesses to pool the abundance of talent across the North to make this a reality.
"Today dozens of bold businesses are sending a clear message by joining us in this quest to make the Northern Powerhouse an even better place to live, work and invest in."
New partners announced today:
Creative Inclusive Industries
North Invest
aql
Vivergo Fuels
Medilink
N8
Barclays
Siemens
Northern Health Science
Alliance
Leeds Bradford Airport
Visit Hull and East Yorkshire
Arcadis
Make It York
RTC North
Crawford Healthcare
ANS Group
Travel Counsellors
Deloitte
Assura
University of Central Lancashire
Carlise Lake District Airport
Vivergo Fuels
North & Western Lancashire Chamber of Commerce
Downton in Business
Hello Soda
These companies join existing partners including Manchester Airport Group, the Peel Group, Atkins Global, North Wales Business Council, Northern Power Women and PD Ports.
"This is just the start, and I would encourage other leading companies to sign up to our new scheme, so we can continue to work together to unleash the full potential of our great northern towns and cities," Gauke added.