THE number of venues running the Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme in Darlington has increased in the past year.

Eight units operate the scheme: Branksome School, Longfield School, the Open Award Centre, Eastbourne School, Carmel College (bronze group), Carmel College (gold group), Polam Hall School and Hurworth House School. More than 150 young people participate.

All venues offer the award at bronze level, with the Open Award Centre, Polam Hall School and Carmel Sixth Form College also offering gold and silver levels.