A FORUM giving a voice to young people in Darlington has been launched.

The Darlington Youth Assembly, a council initiative, aims to give young people the opportunity to take part in and influence decisions which may affect them.

Earlier this week, 80 youngsters attended the launch at the Arts Centre.

They got the opportunity to question councillors and Chief Superintendent Michael Banks, of Darlington police, on various issues.

Workshops were also run to help members of the assembly understand what help was on offer for them in the town.

The assembly will run alongside the North-East regional youth assembly and the UK Youth Parliament.