A WORLD-CLASS referee has visited a rugby club to address a conference of bankers.

Howard Webb was guest speaker at a conference hosted by Darlington Rugby Club for employees of the Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS).

Mr Webb highlighted the importance of team building and working together.

The club plans to invest in its Blackwell Meadows ground to create a top business venue.

Blackwell Meadows already offers free parking and three venue rooms.

Manageress Wendy Thompson said: "Our aim is to take the stress out of organising events so clients can get the most out of the conference.

"We were thrilled that Howard was so impressed and that the RBS conference went so well."

RBS Business relations manager Tony Ptak said: "We found Blackwell Meadows excellent. It was a really good central location.

The staff and facilities were very good and the inspirational talk from Howard added to a really successful day."

For further information about Blackwell Meadows, contact Ms Thompson on 01325-363777.