OPPONENTS of controversial plans to build an academy in Darlington want to speak to a group supporting the bid.

Leaders of the Save Hurworth and Rural Education (Share) team hope to meet members of the recently-formed Academy Support Group (ASG).

The support group, which is backing Darlington Borough Council's plans to build an academy, held its first meeting last week.

The supporters also want to speak to governors at Hurworth School.

The council is proposing to merge Hurworth and Eastbourne schools into a £25m city academy.

Norma Kyle, from Share, said: "We would welcome and be very receptive to a meeting with anyone with the interests of the kids and their education at heart, including representatives of ASG."

Last week, Maureen Horton, who is leading the support group, said she wanted to meet Hurworth's governors, who want to bid for foundation status.

Mrs Kyle added: "If Mrs Horton would like to meet with us with a view to finding a way forward, our telephone number is manned and we would welcome hearing from her."

Mrs Horton said she would prefer to speak to governors at Hurworth.

She said: "I am anxious that we try to work with the governing body. But if anybody from Share wanted an in-depth talk with us, I am sure we would be happy to.

"We just want the best for the future of children's education."