BACK pain is being treated at an unlikely location.

Anyone suffering from back pain or related symptoms can now get help by visiting The Northern Echo arena in Darlington.

The sports venue is being used as a base for Virgin Care’s musculoskeletal service, which provides hands-on therapy and education for those suffering neck and back problems.

The service is available to anyone registered with a GP in the Darlington area, though a GP referral is not necessary.

Faye Cutler, a Virgin Care practitioner, said: “Often people will put up with problems that are not severe but which limit their day-to-day function or activities.

“They may not even go to their GP with them but living with pain is not easy or pleasant.”

The service also offers exercises an-9520 or visit virgincare.co.uk/darlington-self-referral.