RESIDENTS living next to a new bistro have won their fight to stop it extending its opening hours.

Those living near The Lounge bar and bistro, in North Terrace, Seaham, told councillors sitting on Durham County Council's Licensing Sub-Committee that their lives had been made "a misery" when they considered the application yesterday.

The board heard how eight objection letters had been received following owner Carol Madeley's application to extend the opening hours until 1.30am on Friday and Saturday nights and 11.30pm on Sundays.

Representatives from Durham Constabulary also attended the meeting to oppose the plans saying it could cause a public nuisance and an increase in the amount of people out later could increase the amount of crime and disorder.

One neighbour, who has lived on the same street for 60 years, said residents had nothing against Ms Madeley's business but the noise was "making our lives a bit of a misery".

Ms Madeley's partner, Joseph Atkinson, said the couple had done everything "by the book" and anything they could to alleviate any issues since opening five weeks ago.

He said the two additional hours would help the business grow and was mainly aimed at those over 40.

Committee chairwoman Councillor Joyce Maitland, said the board felt the premises was "not suitable or ready" to operate after 11pm and refused the application.