THE campaign to save a prominent North-East pub has been stepped up thanks to a new website.

The White Horse Pub and Hotel, in North Road, Darlington, is the subject of a planning application to demolish it and build 64 flats.

Premier Homes UK has submitted the proposals to Darlington Borough Council, but they have been greeted by outrage among people in the area.

A public meeting this week attracted about 100 people, all of whom were opposed to the scheme.

They were concerned about the scale of the development, as well as traffic and noise.

The matter is expected to come before the borough council's planning committee on May 11, and residents are preparing to state their case.

Mike Cartwright has been chosen to represent residents at the meeting.

He has set up a website explaining more about the matter and encouraging people to leave their comments.

He said: "Our home actually backs on to The White Horse, and so will be adversely affected more than most by the new build.

"Our elderly neighbour is also very concerned as the new two-storey garage block will border her rear garden.

"She is very concerned that this could have major potential as a fire risk.

"This is in addition to the major potential for additional noise and disturbance, which we are all equally worried about.

"The additional issues would be increased traffic on already congested roads and a major lack of parking facilities on the site."

Campaigners are also seeking advice on the plans from Darlington Civic Trust.

The website is at www. savethewhitehorse.org