Former Northern Ireland secretary Peter Mandelson, who was attacked some weeks ago as the "neighbour from hell" by residents living near his Hartlepool home, has apologised for any disturbance caused by the comings and goings at his home.

He was responding to the criticisms of Hutton Road resident Steve Leslie, published by the local newspaper, which described "parking chaos" and police and staff activity every time Mandelson was due home.

Mandelson pointed out that his time at Northern Ireland had made him a terrorist target and insisted that the security arrangements would benefit the neighbours as well as himself.