A DARLINGTON school has been re-awarded an honour for the quality of its physical education and sports programme.

Since receiving the Sportsmark and Sportsmark Gold awards in 1998, Longfield School has strengthened its links with the community.

The awards are made to schools that show a commitment to developing sport to a high level in partnership with the local community.

Keith Gilbertson, head of PE, said: "I am delighted that Sport England has recognised the department's achievements."

Longfield will be using the award, and its Charter Standard School award for football, as the cornerstone of the school's bid for specialist sports college status.