A MEMBERS-ONLY club for the over-25s in Darlington will open tonight.

Business partners Les Langley and Magnus Wilson have teamed up to bring something new to the North-East social scene.

Tonight, the doors will open at The Atlantic Bar and Club, which plans to provide a venue for those aged over 25 to meet, unwind and party in a relaxed atmosphere.

There will be wines, beers, cocktails, designer interiors and soul and rhythm and blues music awaiting members and guests.

Mr Langley and Mr Wilson have more than 30 years' experience between them in the licensed trade, from pub and club management to regional and national operations.

The pair believe they have spotted a gap in the market, and have spent two years working hard to find the best location and design to fit the bill.

Mr Langley said: "We are very excited about the launch of the Atlantic, and the response we are getting is outstanding.

"The comment I get back from nearly everyone I speak to about the club is 'it is just what the area needs', which shows that we have hit the nail right on the head."

The bar and club is located in the former RAFA club, in Duke Street. It will have two main areas - a quiet bar with leather sofas, soft music and a cocktail bar, and a larger club room with a disc jockey and dance floor, high stool seating and a seating area with table service.

It also has a late licence and will be open until 2am most days.

Mr Langley said the bar was aimed at couples and single professionals over 25 who wanted to enjoy a night out, but who felt out of place among 18-year-old clubbers in other venues in the town. Membership is free, except for those arriving after 11pm, and members can sign in two guests, who will be charged.

To join the club, call Mr Langley on 07767 771541.