A Darlington seamstress was picked to begin demolition work on a former office block and start the latest stage of redevelopment work at Lingfield Point, in the town.

Rose Austin started the demolition work on the building, a former laboratory for the Patons and Baldwin factory, which is being knocked down to make way for Centrepoint Square.

The work is being undertaken by Tyne Tees Demolition.

Rose works as a seamstress for fashion designer Susan Gillis Brown, whose business has moved from the demolished premises into quarters in Lingfield House, at the centre of the redevelopment.

Centrepoint Square will be a 170,000sq ft servicing area for the surrounding 400,000sq ft of warehouse space.

Lingfield Point was acquired by Lingfield Investments in 1998. It is being developed in phases, with the rest of the investment on a seven-year rolling programme.

Ms Austin said: "It was a real thrill to be at the controls of the excavator to start the demolition work on our old offices.

"We have been very impressed with the plans for the development."

Eddie Humphries, estate manager at Lingfield Point, said: "This is going to be a first choice location for businesses moving to the Darlington area, and jobs will follow. The creation of Centrepoint Square is further demonstration of our commitment to providing the best facilities for our tenants."