VOLUNTEER groups have come together to clean up a "neglected corner" of Darlington, bringing new life and plants to the area.

Darlington Support, a group set up in response to Covid, and the local branch of international women's group Inner Wheel, which helps children suffering with their wellbeing, held a series of litter-picking and planting sessions in Cockerton to improve the Newton Lane and Eggleston View area.

The drive came after concerns were raised at a Cockerton Community and Business Group meeting by Councillor Jan Cossins.

The councillor, who is also the Call Centre Team Leader for Darlington Support, said: "Despite its prominent location on Newton Lane near the Cricket Club, this street corner had been neglected for many years.

"It is wonderful that what started as a mere suggestion in a meeting has so quickly become a reality."

Inner Wheel Darlington president Karen Campbell said: "We are pleased that Darlington Support benefited from the extensive horticultural expertise of our member, Colleen Ashwin-Kean.

"We also hope that the plants that we were able to donate will add new beautiful colours to the landscape when they flower in the spring."

Volunteer Sue Kirk, who came out in the rain, said she had a "fantastic time".

She said: "While it was wet and raining on a few days, we had a fantastic time and really enjoyed the experience.

"The lovely and encouraging comments that we kept receiving from grateful residents who were passing by while we were volunteering meant so much."