TODAY is a very special day for Darlington. It is the day the people of the town had the chance to get up close to perhaps the world's most famous sporting team – the All Blacks.

PHOTOS: All Blacks meet fans at The Northern Echo Arena

That opportunity is extremely unlikely to come along again and it is wonderful to see local children getting the chance to be coached by sporting legends.

They will tell their children and grandchildren of the day they met the All Blacks.

And yet, I can't help feeling that the town will wonder whether it should have done more to capitalise on this once-in-a-lifetime chance.

Before the accusations of the "negative press" start to fly, The Northern Echo's coverage of the All Blacks visit has been undeniably positive.

We have repeatedly praised the vision of Mowden Park Rugby Club in bidding to bring the All Blacks to the town. And we have also underlined the importance of the partnership with nearby Rockliffe Hall, which has provided the All Blacks with top class accommodation.

Today's Northern Echo (pictured) is a souvenir edition to welcome the All Blacks to the town because we recognise the importance of this moment in local history.

The regret is that the number of spectators allowed into a stadium, capable of holding 25,000 people, was restricted to 4,000, with only one stand filled.

I have no doubt there were logistical problems, such as traffic management and parking.

But, with months to plan, surely more could have been done to allow more local people to be part of such a rare occasion.

It is indeed a special day for Darlington. The All Blacks were effusive in their appreciation of the facilities at the stadium and Rockliffe Hall, and the welcome they have received.

But I am far from alone in thinking more could have been done to match the ambition of the Mowden Park Rugby Club – and the demand to see the reigning world champions of rugby.