FOREIGN Secretary William Hague met with a group of Darlington badminton players as they prepared to head off on a European tour.

Members of Hummersknott Badminton Club are playing a series of matches in France and Germany this month, including one in Darlington’s twin town of Mulheim.

The aim of the trip is to promote junior friendship through sport.

Following exams, a group of older students will travel across Italy and onto Athens, playing various matches and taking in educational sights.

Members of the club met with Mr Hague during a recent visit to the region.

He sent his best wishes for the trips and added: “It was good to hear about the positive effect this is having on both participants and their hosts.”