THE Charities Commission is working with trustees to wind up a Darlington charity which collapsed after serious money problems occurred.

Yesterday, the commission said investigations into Dial-a-Ride were now concentrating on winding up the affairs of the charity, which provided a taxi service for elderly and disabled people.

Dial-a-Ride closed last February after suffering serious money difficulties, which were initially blamed on increased charges.

Former Tory councillor Charles Smith, of Woodland Road, in Darlington, has appeared in court charged with with fraudulent trading and failing to keep accounting records in connection with his role as financial director of the charity. His case was adjourned until Tuesday.