NEIGHBOURS of a pub have scored a victory in their attempt to prevent its opening into the early hours.

Redcar's Hydro Hotel had applied to stay open until 1am on Thursday, Friday and Saturdays, and until 12.30am on Sundays.

But at a licensing committee hearing at Redcar and Cleveland Council on Wednesday pub manager William Myers agreed to withdraw the application.

However, councillors agreed that the pub, which is in Redcar's late night planning zone on The Esplanade, should still be granted a public entertainment licence for normal pub opening hours. That means the pub will be allowed to have music and dancing, despite the concerns of neighbours about disturbance.

Mr Myers said he intends to arrange a meeting with neighbours before possibly reapplying for late night opening in the future.

Speaking at the committee meeting at Eston town hall, Mr Myers noted the letters of complaint.

He said: "The objections were stronger than we anticipated and we do take on board what they say.

"We want to have a meeting at the site.

"Those of you who have seen The Hydro since we have refurbished it will see we have not gone for a disco theme but for comfort.

"We hope to attract an older and hopefully more responsible element with it.

"We will try to allay the fears of our neighbours."