LIDL, the supermarket criticised last week by Darlington MP Alan Milburn, has apologised to residents.

Mr Milburn said he was "sick to the back teeth" with the store after promises to tackle anti-social behaviour in its car park did not materialise.

He said he was angered by Lidl failing to attend meetings with concerned residents.

But earlier this week, Tony Parker, a Lidl regional director, met with the store's neighbours, borough councillor Ian Haszeldine and police.

He apologised for a "communication problem" and promised a new monthly meeting.

Residents of Phoenix Court and Albatross Way, near the store, had demanded the meeting after youths in the car park had banged on windows, thrown plants and intimidated elderly people.

Mr Parker said: "We had a very positive meeting.

"The main issue was lighting left on too long, but now it will be switched off about half an hour after the store closes.

"The CCTV is fully operational, and we met with police to put together a plan on how we are going to address these issues.

"The tannoy has been installed. We're still investigating why it hasn't been used, but it's operational.

"The issue has been not us failing to take measures, more that we haven't communicated what we have done.

"And, in a way, I'm glad that is the problem.

"We are part of the community, we have responsibilities and will do what we have to do.

"We're not saying the problem will be fixed overnight, but we are working on it."

Coun Haszeldine, who had lobbied for the meeting, said: "It was an excellent meeting.

"The residents are going to monitor the situation and see if things are improving.

"They are a lot happier now - they have a name and a face to contact."

Mr Milburn, who wrote to Lidl in May, said he was pleased residents finally had a channel for their concerns.

"I am very pleased they have responded to our feedback, and will take responsibility," he said.

"Supermarkets are part of the communities they serve and it is important they remember that."