A new inward investment programme aimed at helping find jobs for steelworkers in a region hit by a wave of redundancies is to be chaired by Lord Heseltine.

The former deputy prime minister will head up the Tees Valley Inward Investment Initiative, which will work to boost economic growth and attract foreign investment.

The area has been hit by the crisis in the steel industry, with thousands of job losses announced in recent weeks at plants including the SSI site in Redcar.

Business Secretary Sajid Javid said: “The closure of the SSI Steelworks plant was a huge blow to local people. On top of the up to £80 million package of direct support, we are determined to do all we can to secure long-term growth for the area and people of Teesside.

“Michael has a record of getting things done. He has a wealth of experience of working closely with local communities, business acumen and passion for investment and regeneration, and it’s a real coup he’s agreed to take on this job.”

Lord Heseltine said: “It is a great honour to be asked to help with the Government response to the sad events in the steel industry in Teesside.”