Get the latest headlines, breaking news and live updates straight to your WhatsApp- all you need to do is click the link below.

The Northern Echo has joined WhatsApp communities and we want you to be a part of it.

We’ll send all the latest breaking news, exclusive events, headlines to start your day with and finish your day with our “Hometime Headlines” straight to your phone.

Users must download or already have WhatsApp on their phones to join in. To get involved in The Northern Echo-Breaking News and Top Stories group, all you have to do is click on the link and select ‘Join Community’.

Stay in the loop with any traffic delays, road closures, breaking incidents, crime and court and more from Darlington, Durham and beyond!

And if you enjoy our community, you can also help support us further by subscribing to a digital subscription to The Northern Echo now for just £3 for 3 months. You’ll receive unlimited access to all our articles, exclusive access to the e-edition of The Northern Echo and a FREE membership to our Reader Rewards scheme. The exclusive club that gives you discounts on all your favourite high street brands and more.

No one will be able to see who’s receiving our broadcasts and no one else can send messages to the community except for The Northern Echo team- and you can leave anytime you like!

To leave our community, all you must do is click the name at the top of your screen and select ‘Exit Group’.

Clue yourself up on all privacy policy here.

Click here to join.