A MOTHER says her young son was almost knocked down by one of a number of drivers who park illegally at a Darlington park.

The woman, who asked not to be named, says that bowlers who use North Lodge Park for evening matches regularly park on the grass and paths used by walkers, despite parking being available on the streets nearby.

The woman said that while she was walking with her two-year-old son in the park, he had a narrow escape after a car emerged without warning.

She said: "The car came out of nowhere and he was nearly run over. I have seen on some occasions up to 30 cars on the park when there is more than adequate parking on the streets. If you try and speak to the drivers they can be quite intimidating."

Darlington Borough Council is understood to have written to the bowls club.

Council spokesman Steve Jones said: "We will be having discussions with those responsible if there is a problem."