OWNERS of a hotel are "proud" after it was crowned one of the most popular wedding venues in the area for the second year running.

Walworth Castle Hotel, near Darlington, has topped the table of most popular wedding venues in the borough for the second year running.

Owners Chris and Rachel Swain said: "We are really proud to receive this award and the recognition of the hard work and achievements of the team.

“Of the many of the couples who choose to celebrate their wedding day with us, some are local couples but many are from the wider area. It is great that they have chosen Walworth Castle Hotel and, of course, Darlington as a place to celebrate their special day."

Councillor Gerald Lee, of Heighington and Coniscliffe Ward, which includes Walworth, met with the staff and owners of Walworth Castle to congratulate them on their success.

He said: “Well done to the team at Walworth Castle. It is a wonderful and unusual venue and a fantastic achievement to top the tables twice in two years.

"With an average wedding costing somewhere near £20,000, they play an important role in the local economy, generating employment, welcoming visitors to our town and also supporting the many suppliers involved in the wedding business. The success of Walworth Castle Hotel confirms that Darlington is a place where people want to live, work and also visit and celebrate a life event.”