A GROUND-BREAKING theatre workshop for people with learning disabilities is to be set up in Darlington.

Two local learning disabilities workers have applied for planning permission to run a performing arts class at a unit at Lingfield Way.

The organisers hope members of the regular drama club could eventually take to the stage at the town's Arts Centre, and even the Edinburgh Festival.

Robert Large, who came up with the idea with business partner Julie Cormack, said the not-for-profit centre would be the town's first if the plans are approved.

"We are at the very early stages at the moment, but this will be a first for people with learning disabilities in Darlington," he said.

"Julie and I both work in social care and we do a pantomime with clients every year.

"The way it boosts people's confidence is unbelievable - it's great for their self-esteem.

"It helps people to express themselves and often they find out they had a talent they didn't know they had.

"It gives quieter people a chance to express themselves in a less intimidating way. It also improves their social skills and helps them to meet new people.

"Hopefully, we will put on one major production each year, and at the moment we're thinking about doing Oliver!

"We will also be doing little revues here and there and we hope to do something at the Edinburgh festival."

The workshop - which is to be called Large Productions - will be open to adults with learning disabilities aged 19 and over.

If the application for change of use of the unit is approved by Darlington Borough Council, the centre will open in September.

Councillor Bryan Thistlethwaite, the Labour cabinet member for adult services, said yesterday: "This can only be a good thing.

"As long as there are no planning issues, a workshop like this can only be of benefit to the town.

"It would really integrate people into mainstream society from a social point of view and that can only be good news."

The plans are available to view at the Town Hall, Darlington.