A DARLINGTON sports and social club damaged by two suspected arson attacks has been demolished.

The former working men's club in Skerne Park, now the Aiden's Sports Bar, was set on fire on July 6, two weeks after a blaze started in a flat above the premises.

The club was demolished on Monday after protests by residents.

Park East ward councillors sent out leaflets to residents informing them the demolition would go ahead despite the legal responsibility resting with the brewery that owned the premises.

Councillors agreed the building should be demolished at a cabinet meeting on July 10.

Councillor Cyndi Hughes said: "We are delighted. The two arson attacks and the state of the remaining structure were too much for the people of Skerne Park to have to bear."

Asbestos delayed the demolition by a few days but all the material was stripped from the club over the weekend.

Residents on the estate are being asked for views on a replacement