Alan Milburn yesterday backed local fundraising efforts at the launch of an umbrella group for charities.

Mr Milburn, the MP for Darlington, was at Darlington Building Society's Sentinel House headquarters for the launch of the Darlington Charity Partnership (DCP).

The group comprises five local charities - St Teresa's Hospice, Darlington Samaritans, Age Concern, Darlington Mind and Friends of Darlington Memorial Hospital - who will work under the DCP banner to raise funds.

"It's the first time in the town that charities have come together for what they need," said Mr Milburn, who was joined by charity representatives and town mayor Roderick Francis.

"I think the initiative is a very good one and will really help our town," he said.

"I have worked very closely over the years with all five charities. They all do brilliant work for local people, and they always need more help."

Darlington Building Society is sponsoring the partnership, and paying for advertising, printing and marketing.

Chief executive Peter Rowley said: "We are proud to be associated with the Darlington Charity Partnership, particularly as the initiative is in keeping with our dedication to looking after local interests."

Alasdair MacConachie, chairman of the Darlington Partnership, said: "In many cases, the charities may be competing with each other, but to think we can come together to raise money for this wonderful town we live in is remarkable."