YOUNGSTERS enjoyed a special reading of Darly’s Magical History Ride when author Peter Barron took to the stage to bring it to life.

The former editor of The Northern Echo was joined on stage by his erstwhile former deputy, Chris Lloyd, to help to take the children from Green Lane Primary School and Cockfield Primary School, on a rip-roaring ride through time.

Sales of the book, which is a collaboration with Darlington Building Society, will help to boost the coffers of the Building Society's charity arm.

The story tells how Darly passes through a number of enchanted tunnels. Every time he emerges from the darkness, he goes back in time, leading to some unforgettable encounters with characters from history, including Henry VIII and Emperor Hadrian.

Darly, which was launched last year as part of the building society's rebrand, aims to encourage young people to start saving money.

The book launch took place in the town's newly opened Hullabaloo Theatre.