RESIDENTS worried about the loss of old buildings in Darlington are holding a public meeting tonight.

The event, at the town's Dolphin Centre, could lead to the formation of a pressure group.

Representatives from English Heritage and the North-East Civic Trust will explain their roles in protecting townscapes and historic surroundings.

An open discussion will follow, to consider the possibility of resurrecting a branch of the Civic Trust or an alternative organisation.

Chartered landscape architect Jenny Leeming has arranged the meeting, which begins at 7.30pm.

She says discussions have been continuing for some time, in the wake of several contentious planning applications affecting old buildings in Darlington.

She can be contacted for further details on (01325) 244389