A GROUP of women set out to raise awareness of efforts to eliminate violence against women on a day of international recognition.

One week ago, on Monday November 25, was the United Nations Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women.

This day marks the start of the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence campaign.

Darlington Soroptimists had a pop-up stand in the Covered Market to raise awareness of the issue.

They gave out orange ribbons and - thanks to the generous support of Robin Blair - offered satsumas to all the visitors to the stand.

Leaflets from Family Help and from the Rape & Sexual Abuse Counselling Centre were also available.

"We had fantastic support from all the Market stallholders," said Barbara Brown.

"People were happy to wear an orange ribbon to help Orange the World: the slogan of the UN campaign."

Council Leader Heather Scott helped by making sure that the town clock was a bright orange on Monday evening. A number of the smaller shops in the town centre placed something orange in their windows and gave out Soroptimist flyers.

"It was great to have the chance to talk to people about our organisation," said Chrisy Dennis, Secretary of the Darlington Soroptimist club.

"We want everyone to know about the work Soroptimists do locally, nationally and internationally."