A SCULPTOR is returning to his home town of Darlington to create a work of art at a new business park.

John Atkin has already produced his initial designs for a steel sculpture at the entrance to the Morton Palms business park, on behalf of developer City & Northern.

The first two buildings on the 28-acre site have been completed in a £10m development.

Mr Atkin said: "It has long been an ambition of mine to produce a significant piece of work in my home town and I'm thrilled that City & Northern have given me the opportunity."

He has previously picked up awards from organisations such as London's Royal College of Art.

Cath Cannon, City & Northern's marketing director, said: "John Atkin was the ideal choice for this commission and his enthusiasm for the project was outstanding."

The sculpture will be officially unveiled in May.