A BUILDING society has launched a new community scheme with a former Northern Echo editor as its ambassador.

Darlington Building Society, which has 10 branches covering County Durham, North Yorkshire and Teesside, is working with Peter Barron, who will become a link between the society, its members and local people in the areas in which it has operated for more than 160 years.

Mr Barron, who was editor of the Echo for 18 years, said: "I am proud of the longstanding relationship I have with Darlington Building Society, having worked in the local area for more than three decades.

"I want to use that experience, local knowledge and my extensive network to help build on the enviable reputation the society has for community involvement," he added.