THE main opposition political party in Darlington has created a shadow cabinet.

Councillor Heather Scott, the leader of Darlington Conservatives, said she created the shadow cabinet in order to a closer watch on the activities of the executive.

Nine Conservative councillors will have a portfolio, mirroring that of the their Labour colleagues.

The Conservative shadow cabinet is: Alan Coultas, economy; Barrie Armstrong, children's services; Jim Ruck, transport; Ian Galletley, neighbourhood; Brian Jones, environment; Heather Scott, health and leisure; Tony Richmond, adult services; Ron Lewis, communities; Charles Johnson, resources.