PHOTOGRAPHY students at a Darlington school have got their own darkroom after years of using facilities elsewhere in the town.

Eastbourne Comprehensive School has received funding for the darkroom from the Department for Education and Skills because of its pioneering link with Hurworth School Maths and Computing College.

Eastbourne is one of only two schools in the North of England that teaches GCSE photography.

Pupils can now complete the practical side of the course without travelling to use developing facilities at further education colleges.

Photography teacher Terry Laheney said: "This year I have five full GCSE classes in years ten and 11. I also teach evening classes as part of the school's adult education provision.

"I am absolutely delighted with my new room, completed just in time to begin the summer round of examinations."

Building work is also expected to be finished this term on a catering kitchen and restaurant for the school. Pupils from Eastbourne and Hurworth will be taught in the facility.

For details of photography evening classes, call Lorna Pollard on (01325) 267300.