PEOPLE with autism and learning difficulties came together this weekend for the first instalment of a new monthly event dedicated to people with additional needs.

On Friday, March 13, over 100 people attended Darlington Unlimited's first event, a £1 disco where people of all ages, with learning difficulties, autism and additional needs, came come together and socialise in a safe space.

Founder Luke Scarr, who is a additional needs teacher, had the idea after asking his students what they do in their free time. Often, less independent teens were isolated and spent a lot playing video games.

The 28-year-old said: "The party was absolutely amazing. We had over 100 people turn up in the end, with around 60 being carers and 40 being children, young people and adults with needs.

"We had some fantastic feedback from parents, guardian and carers. With some saying their thanks for putting this on to others telling me their child had made new friends."

Due to the event's success, Mr Scarr plans to make it a monthly activity.

Darlington Unlimited, which was set up just a month ago, is also hosting a bingo evening on April 1, at Bannatyne hotel from 6pm until 7.30pm, as well as a monthly 'Walk and Talk' at South Park, on the first Sunday of every month.

Speaking about a man he met at the event, Mr Scarr said: "I felt like I’ve known Will Smith my whole life even though I’d never met him before.

"Genuinely one of the most kindest and friendly people I’ve ever met. He was a bit nervous about getting his face paint so I made a deal with him. If he gets his done he can do mine. As you can tell he went a bit overboard on myself and decided to write Luke loves Laura after he spent the evening trying to get me to engage my partner. Then I drew Michael Jackson on his arm with the name of his dog, Massie."

Find out more about the project at facebook.com/UnlimitedDarlington/ or on Twitter, at @UnlimitedDarlo