HEALTH Secretary Alan Milburn last night told of his delight after a play scheme for disabled children was saved.

The Darlington MP was instrumental in securing the future of the Dash scheme, which provides holiday and after-school care for youngsters in the town.

The project, run by Darlington Association on Disability (DAD), was in danger of being suspended earlier this year after funding from Children in Need was stopped and insurance costs began to rise.

But it was saved by a community campaign which brought together concerned parents, council chiefs and businesses.

Their fundraising work has guaranteed that a limited scheme will be operated for Christmas, and the after-school club and services for February and Easter are now secure.

Mr Milburn said: "This is a vital service for families in Darlington and to lose it would have been devastating for the children and their parents.

"The staff and volunteers who give up so much of their time to help these children should be applauded for their efforts, and I am delighted a way forward has been found."

The Dash service caters for more than 200 children from across County Durham.

It was recognised earlier this year by York University's social policy research department in a report highlighting good practice.

Manager of DAD, Lauren Robinson, said: "There would be no way that DAD would let such a worthwhile service fold. We have spent 15 years developing Dash to deliver the high standard that it provides today and we have fantastic staff and volunteers who give up their holidays year after year.

"Unfortunately, parents were naturally very concerned when we had to cancel services in October.

"Their efforts have been fantastic and have enabled us to enlist support from local groups such as Darlington Lions, businesses including Marks and Spencer, local authority social services, education departments and Darlington Primary Care Trust."

A further £10,000 still needs to be raised to ensure that all the children who use the schemes can be accommodated.

Anyone who can help is asked to contact DAD on (01325) 489999.