The North-East's growing reputation as an international centre for the biofuels industry will be confirmed when the region hosts a major conference next week.

Around 250 people from 20 different countries will be attending the 5th European Motor Biofuels Forum at Gateshead's Hilton Hotel from September 11 to 13. The conference and trade show will include practical demonstrations of the use of biofuels in road vehicles by Ford. Middlesbrough-based biodiesel maker, D1 Oils, will also show how the product can also be used to power racing cars.

Supported by industry association North-East Biofuels and regional development agency One NorthEast, the conference will feature 60 speakers from Government, industry, the automotive and agricultural sectors.

Speakers will discuss issues such as Government policy, the environment, feedstock supply and project execution. Delegates will share best practice, discuss future business opportunities and meet potential business contacts. All the available exhibition space at the trade show has been booked.

John Reynolds, chairman of North-East Biofuels, said: "Worldwide interest in biofuels is greater than ever before and this event gives us a fantastic opportunity to highlight what we are doing here in the North-East."