A FIGHT between neighbouring Darlington schools has resulted in police being called and the schools uniting to deal with those involved.

It is understood a number of students from Hummersknott and Carmel College were involved in the fight in Cemetery Lane, roughly equidistant between the two school sites, at about 3.30pm on Wednesday.

A spokeswoman for Durham Police said: "Police were called shortly after 3.30pm to reports of fight between schoolchildren in Cemetery Lane, Darlington.

"Schools informed and officers visited them today."

Hummersknott Academy principal, James Keating, and Carmel College principal, Mike Shorten, have condemned the behaviour in a joint statement.

They said: “We are extremely concerned to hear about this uncharacteristic but shocking event.

"We wish to make it clear that this kind of appalling behaviour is completely unacceptable and will not be tolerated at our schools, both of which have very positive reputations in the local community.

"We will continue to work together, alongside the police, to address the issue and the appropriate action will be taken to deal with all of the students who were responsible.”