Following the success of Quiet Hour shopping in Darlington before Christmas, a group of Darlington retailers and other venues are once again hosting 60 minutes of relaxed shopping in the town on Sunday 4 February from 10.30–11.30am.

New retailers that have signed up to the scheme include Wilko, Boyes, Imperial Express and Guru Boutique.

They join Queen Street and Cornmill Shopping Centres, Mercure Darlington Kings Head Hotel, Marks and Spencer, House of Fraser (Binns)* and The Dolphin Centre to take part alongside a number of independent retailers and services including Origins Home and Origins Coffee Bar* and The Keys.

The Quiet Hour proved to be a hit with shoppers, including parents of youngsters with autism, when it was first launched before Christmas.

During the hour, shops and other venues will be turning off their music and children’s rides to help create a calmer and more relaxed atmosphere. These changes will help those who need quieter and calmer surroundings, including elderly shoppers or people who have autism and dementia.

Councillor Sue Richmond, Darlington Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, said:

The Quiet Hour proved hugely popular with parents of young children, older people and a whole range of shoppers who prefer a quieter experience.

More retailers and services have got involved meaning even more choice for customers. We hope to host this hour on a regular basis and look forward to welcoming more retailers and venues to come on board.

To find out more visit www.cornmillcentre.co.uk