A FOOTBALL club has won praise for its efforts to cater for disabled people.

Darlington FC scooped the top accolade in the annual Darlington Association on Disability (DAD) awards scheme.

The Quakers won the large organisation category in the Access for All Awards.

The honours are presented to businesses or organisations which demonstrate a commitment to ensuring their premises are accessible to everyone.

Gordon Pybus, chairman of DAD, said the 96.6TFM Arena won the acclaim of judges.

"The staff there are not only ready to help, they are aware of the needs of disabled people," he said.

"The judges found that Darlington Football Club staff had a disability policy and culture which compliments the building, which has itself been designed with accessibility for all in mind."

Quakers chairman Stewart Davies received the award from Darlington Mayor, Stella Robson.

Mr Davies said: "We have a fantastic stadium, but when it comes to accessibility, it is the attitude of the people within the club which really brings that to life, and I must thank our staff for helping us win this award."

The Art Shop, in Bondgate, won the small organisation award.

The Dr Piper House walk-in health centre, in King Street, was highly commended in the awards, and Gala Bingo, in Skinnergate. was also commended.