CAMPAIGNERS battling to save a Durham city centre bowling green are hoping to strike a chord with their latest protest.

The Elvet Residents' Association yesterday (FRI) called in soprano Bethany Halliday to sing The Racecourse Rag, a protest song aimed at saving the Durham Racecourse bowling green, which is earmarked for development.

Banks Developments and the Esh Group want to build 11,600 square feet of office space, 90 apartments and 24 houses on a site including the green and the city swimming baths.

Ms Halliday, who regularly sings with the English National Opera, performed the Racecourse Rag, which was composed by residents association chair Jonathan Lovell, for an audience of around 25.

Among them was Durham City MP Roberta Blackman-Woods, who accepted a 3,300-name petition aimed at saving the bowling green.

Pippa Bell, from Elvet Residents' Association, said: "This petition was collected in one month. We're absolutely astounded by the response. When we were at the Miners' Gala, people were queuing up to sign.

"There is such a strong desire among residents and visitors to this city to save this green space."

Dr Blackman-Woods, who will take the petition to Parliament, said: "I am concerned at the loss of this green space.

"Instead, what the city should be developing is proper recreational space facilities."

Emma Young, from Banks Developments, said the company has listened to residents' concerns and the building will open up the area, providing more space.

A planning application had been expected in June but has been delayed.

Ms Young said yesterday it would be filed before the end of August.