A building society is trying a new way of reaching potential customers.

Not only is Darlington Building Society advertising on radio, it is buying sets to give away to ensure as many people as possible hear its marketing message.

The company is working in partnership with Forces Radio BFPS in Catterick Garrison, after opening a branch to serve the Army community last year.

One thousand radios, pre-tuned to the station, will be handed to soldiers and their families so they can hear the latest songs, news updates and the society's commercials.

Station manager Mark Page said: "The radios are a great idea and will help us reach a much larger local audience.

He also said they would be about to help listeners tune in.