AS a teenager growing up in Darlington's Albert Hill, David Cox harboured desires of becoming a musician.

He had more than enough desire, and probably adequate ability - but quickly realised he would not be able to live his dream.

"There was nowhere to practice, nowhere to go to rehearse, use instruments, discover musical talent. I came from very humble beginnings where my parents couldn't afford a great deal. There was just no opportunity," he said.

And so the idea was born to create a venue for aspiring musicians of all ages to indulge their desires at minimal cost. Thirty years later, in 2004, Mr Cox used money amassed through 25 years working in car dealership to invest in The Forum.

A unique place, thought to be the only privately-run not-for-profit recording and performance venue in the country, it is now widely acknowledged as one of the North-East's leading live music venues, which also offers recording and production facilities.

"It has not been easy, particularly at first," said Mr Cox, who was crowned Citizen of the Year at the first Best of Darlington awards last week.

"But when I was given that award, as unexpected as it was, it felt like a massive vote of confidence in what we're trying to achieve. It was like people understood where I'm coming from."

After significant investment - both in time and money - the groundwork is now in place, and Mr Cox passionately believes The Forum, in Borough Road, is part of Darlington's cultural growth. "We have created not only a venue here, but an opportunity - I would love to see The Forum adopted by the town.

"Acting together, we can take this opportunity to the next level, take the blueprint out into other parts of the country," he said.

"Darlington could be at the forefront of music - something exciting could be about to happen."

With its impressive array of recording studios, rehearsal rooms and stylish caf bar, it is easy to see why The Forum has such a loyal and growing clientele. A £25 annual membership fee allows use of all facilities for a reduced fee.

On any given day, choral groups can be rehearsing in the room next door to an indie band or hip-hop DJ.

"It's not only about young musicians, although is very much about them," said Mr Cox.

"But it's also about older, professional people. That's one of the beauties of music, it's a social leveller.

"By offering the chance for people who love music to try using these facilities, we may just uncover something massive. Why shouldn't Darlington produce the next big thing?"

For more information about The Forum, contact (01325) 363135 or log onto www.theforum online.co.uk