A NORTH-EAST college has become the first learning provider in the region to gain a coveted accolade for promoting equality and diversity.

Darlington College has achieved the Equality Standard, in recognition of its efforts to support students and staff.

The Equality Standard, promoted and organised by Equality North-East, is open to organisations from all sectors which can show they are leading the way in their approach to fairness and diversity.

Kate Hunter, the college’s staff development and equalities manager, said: “We are thrilled to have secured this standard in honour of the work we continuously carry out.”