A FAMILY fun day marked the official launch of a foundation designed to preserve and improve Darlington’s largest park.

Darlington’s Mayor Cllr Veronica Copeland officially launched the South Park Foundation which is made up of people who want to help maintain the park’s Green Flag status and further develop its offer.

There were information stalls for people to learn more about the foundation as well as an array of activities and entertainment for youngsters to enjoy.

This included circus skills, face painting, autumnal crafts and bird box making.

Over the summer the foundation carried out a consultation with Darlington residents about their use of the park and the feedback received is being put towards an action plan.

This will help the foundation prioritise what areas of the park need to be developed or improved.

The group is encouraging local people to become members and support is being offered from Groundwork NE & Cumbria and Darlington Borough Council.

The foundation was first formed in June after local businesses joined forces with the park’s Friends group and Darlington’s Round Table.

More than 300 people took part in the consultation looking at ways that the community can help shape the future of the popular attraction.