THERE was a ‘cops and robbers’ theme to this year’s Darlington Mayor’s Ball.

Mayor Brian Jones and his Mayoress wife, Doris, arrived in chains but thankfully avoided leaving the glittering ball in handcuffs.

The couple were joined by dignitaries from around the region along with business leaders and special guests in the town’s Dolphin Centre.

A silent auction and raffle were among the events on the evening designed to raise funds for St Teresa’s Hospice, the Samaritans, the 700 Club and Breathe Easy.