Our Darling Town

They say music brings people together, and today’s guests are proving exactly that right here in Darlington! 🎶

In this episode of Our Darling Town, we’re joined by Katie andCaroline from the Northern Lights Community Choir, a wonderful local group bringing more than 50 people together through their shared love of singing.

For decades, Peter Barron has been at the heart of the North East’s biggest stories. But in this episode of Our Darling Town, we’re turning the tables and telling his.

An award-winning journalist, author and broadcaster, Peter spent 17 years as editor of The Northern Echo, becoming the longest-serving editor in the newspaper’s history. During his time, he championed the North East, gave local people a voice and helped shape the stories that mattered to the region.

Now founder of Barron Media, Peter joins us to reflect on a remarkable career in journalism.

In this episode of Our Darling Town, we’re joined by Marcus from Darlington Mind, a local mental health charity supporting individuals and families across Darlington and the wider North East.

We talk about the vital work Darlington Mind does to support people of all ages, from counselling, recovery programmes and peer support to group activities that help build resilience, tackle isolation and bring people together.

Find out more about Darlington Mind:

https://www.darlingtonmind.com/

Find out about upcoming events:

https://www.darlingtonmind.com/events/

Today on Our Darling Town, we’re joined by Allison &Kirsten from The Forum Darlington.

Since opening its doors, The Forum has grown into so much more than a live music venue. It’s become a vibrant hub for music, community and creativity, bringing people together and helping Darlington’s cultural scene thrive.

We hear how The Forum all began, what really goes on behind the scenes, the people and passion that make it special, and what exciting things are coming next.

In this episode, James and Henry are joined by Adiy Ahmed and Hilary Rabbett, to talk about the inspiring story of I’m George's Mate, a charity dedicated to supporting mental health and preventing suicide.

Driven by compassion and an unwavering commitment to helping others, Adiy and Hilary have devoted countless hours to creating a charity that changes lives. Through connection, conversation, and community, I’m George's Mate encourages people to open up, reach out, and know that they are never alone.

https://www.imgeorgesmate.com/

In this episode, James and Henry sit down with Melissa and Alex Brunskill, the mother and daughter team behind Funky Fidgets, fresh from winning the Echo Independent Business Award.What started during lockdown as an 11-year-old Alex selling sensory toys on TikTok Shop has grown into one of Darlington's biggest independent success stories. Today, Funky Fidgets attracts customers from across the UK and around the world, with fans travelling from other countries and queueing for up to two hours.Melissa and Alex share the incredible journey from a lockdown hobby to an award-winning business, the power of social media, the challenges of rapid growth, and what it means to build a thriving business in the heart of Darlington.

In this episode, we’re joined by Rachel and Becky from First for Fostering. With nearly 20 years of experience across adult and children’s services, they have built an agency centred around family, trust, and therapeutic support. We discuss the difference a loving home can make to a child’s life, and the support that foster carers receive throughout their journey.

Rachel and Becky share their passion for helping children thrive and explain why fostering can be one of the most rewarding things a person can do.

To learn more about fostering or to find out how you can get involved, visit:https://firstforfostering.co.uk/

In this episode, we finally turn the spotlight onto Henry, James’ younger-older brother and co-host of Our Darling Town. We interviewed James before, so now it’s Henry’s turn.

Known by many as being “social media famous”, Henry shares his thoughts and tips on posting online, building an audience, and why consistency matters on socials.

We also dive into his passion for CrossFit, his love for Darlington, and the journey that’s helped shape who he is today.

Today’s guest is Rose from Zarach, a charity working to tackle child bed poverty across the UK.Zarach has recently expanded into Darlington and the wider Tees Valley, partnering with schools to provide beds, bedding, pyjamas, and essential items for children in need. Their mission is simple but powerful: ensuring every child has a safe, comfortable place to sleep so they can thrive at school and at home.In this episode, we discuss the reality of child bed poverty, the impact it has on families, and how local communities can help make a difference.If you would like to donate, volunteer, or learn more about Zarach’s work, visit: https://zarach.org/

In this episode we’re joined by Cassie Cooper, the voice behind Manic Mumdays, a platform dedicated to helping families discover genuinely great days out across the North East.

As a mum of three, Cassie shares honest, real-life reviews of places to visit, all with one goal: getting kids off screens and into real-life adventures.

Alongside this, Cassie has created a growing online community where parents can connect, share experiences, and support each other.

👉 Find out more: https://www.manic-mumdays.co.uk/