PRO-EUROPE campaigners were driving their message around Darlington yesterday (Tuesday, February 9).

A van travelled around the town boldly proclaiming the number of North-East jobs said to be linked to the UK’s trade with the EU.

The message, from the Britain Stronger In Europe campaign, claimed 156,000 regional jobs are linked to EU trade.

The campaigners believe the country’s membership of the EU allows businesses and consumers to benefit from free trade, thus increasing trade and job opportunities.

A statement from the group said: “Britain is stronger, safer and better off in Europe than we would be out on our own.

“Leaving Europe would risk our prosperity, threaten our safety and diminish our influence in the world.

“The benefits of being in clearly outweigh the costs.”