What we know about Darlington alleyway police cordon

The alleyway between Columbia Street and Craig Street in Darlington has been cordoned off this morning (March 30).

Residents woke to find the full length of the alleyway blocked off with police officers standing guard at each end.

Police guarding the alleyway. (Image: Northern Echo) Crime scene investigators were pictured using a torch along the alleyway searching behind bins left out by residents.

The circumstances of the incident remain unknown - and Durham Constabulary have been contacted for more information.

One resident living on Craig Street is Tracey Bell - who has lived on the street for around 30 years but has never seen an incident of this kind.

Police guarding the alleyway. (Image: Northern Echo) "We have no idea what has happened at all. My husband looked out the spare bedroom window and shouted me up to come and have a look.

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"This is a really quiet area usually - you never hear anything. Everyone keeps to themselves."

Another resident, who did not wish to be named, said: "I didn’t hear a thing last night and now I’ve woken up to see this police cordon. 

"I don’t know what’s happened. In the time that I’ve lived here I’ve had no trouble - it’s a really quiet area with loads of families."