A MAYOR is calling for a North-East town to have a recognised gay quarter.

Middlesbrough Mayor Ray Mallon says creating such an area is an "essential element" of any vibrant town or city.

He has told a meeting of the council's executive he wants more events and facilities for the town's gay community.

And he plans a fact-finding visit to gay bars and cafes in Canal Street, Manchester, the centre of that city's gay community.

The gay rights campaign group Stonewall last night welcomed the proposal.

Vicky Powell, a spokeswoman for the organisation, said: "The mayor's thinking demonstrates an understanding of the diversity issue and how an area is made up.

"But you just cannot create a gay area overnight, it has to be something developed over time with businesses and with the police.

"I think most of the gay areas - Brighton, London and Manchester's Canal Street - have developed over many years.

"They bring benefits, but in some ways can bring problems. People and police in the area need to be aware, with people feeling safe. Obviously it has got to be packaged properly and has to be done in a joined-up way. Businesses will want to benefit from an area like that, but it has to be done properly."

Ms Powell added: "Being an ex police officer, Mr Mallon will understand the issues. On the whole, it is good for people to have an area where they can be out and feel safe.''

Mr Mallon told The Northern Echo last night: "What I want to see is Middlesbrough cater for the gay community and that means more facilities which will attract a gay community because I want Middlesbrough to compete with other towns and cities across the country.

"It is an essential element of any town or city which has substance. It is all about giving people a stake.''

He added: "To some extent I am still dealing with prejudices of some people. Some people are prejudiced towards black people, some people towards certain religious groups - others are prejudiced against the gay community.

"I am trying to deal with all of that. Where a gay community is concerned it will take time to create the right climate for a gay community to be established.''

The mayor added: "When I was elected I stated that I believed everyone should have a stake in society.

"Where Middlesbrough is concerned I want everyone to have a stake in the town. All successful towns and cities across the country, as well as Europe, have a vibrant gay community. Manchester has Canal Street where the gay community have enhanced the economy greatly.''