A MASSIVE public consultation involving Darlington people aged 50 and over has been launched in an effort to make life easier for older people in the borough.

The aim of the project is to give people a voice in the development of an integrated strategy for older people, which will be used when looking at issues concerning health and social services.

The consultation is being run by Louise Graham, user-involvement development worker at the Darlington Community Volunteers Service, alongside consultant Mike Rose-Troup.

Before the deadline at the end of March, there will be a number of public consultation meetings, as well as a chance to fill in questionnaires and attend forums about what life is like now, but also how they see the situation in the future.

Miss Graham said: "We are hoping to reach as many people as possible, and there are a number of different ways people can get in touch."

The public consultations will be in the Crown Street Post Office on February 26, the Cornmill Shopping Centre on February 27, the Dolphin Centre on February 28, the housing office at Darlington Town Hall on March 1, and at the Morrison's store in North Road on March 2.

People can also telephone Miss Graham on (01325) 254662 with any views or opinions on life for older people in Darlington.

The project comes as the number of older people in Darlington is increasing, and their general health level is improving. It is hoped the research will have a positive effect on life for pensioners in the future.

"We are looking to the future and trying to get things into place now for 20 years down the road," said Miss Graham.

"This has all happened because the population of Darlington is aging. Not only are people living longer, they are living more active lives."