The firm is producing the 18,800-run publication for the regional publisher, the first issue of which launched on 28 March 2008.

Williams Gibbons is printing the magazine on its 16pp Komori System 38SII presses using 70gsm UPM star stock for the text and 170gsm stock for the cover.

The magazine, which ranges from 132pp to 164pp pagination, is also perfect bound in-house using its Muller Martini Trendbinders.

North East Life aims to celebrate the region's "strong industrial heritage, its wild and beautiful countryside and its passionate people".

The first edition features interviews with football legend Sir Bobby Robson, singer-songwriter Chris Rea and TV presenter Matt Baker.

Archant Life regional managing director Liz Page said: "We are delighted to expand into the North East."

She added: "There is a clear gap in the market for a quality county-style publication which meets the same high standards as our other magazines."

North East Life retails at £1.95. Other titles in the Archant Life portfolio include Yorkshire Life, Lancashire Life and Cheshire Life.