IT was meant as a consultation to give local residents the opportunity to find out more about Able UK's plans to carry out ship dismantling at its Hartlepool site.

However, such is the controversy and depth of feeling surrounding the issue of the Ghost Ships that this drop-in event turned into a platform for residents to vent their anger.

Organised by Hartlepool Borough Council and the Environment Agency, there were no representatives from Able at yesterday's event.

This was probably a wise move, since the overwhelming message from locals at the meeting at Seaton Carew Cricket Club was hostile.

Hartlepool resident James Massey, a former Able UK employee, echoed the mood of many. He said: "I'm proud to be from this town but it's getting a reputation as the dumping ground of the world. That is something I find unacceptable."

Able UK is seeking planning permission for a dismantling facility at its Graythorp site.

It has submitted three applications to Hartlepool council that would see new quays, dock gates, further industrial and warehouse buildings as well as the installation of a new railway track at the site.

The Environment Agency is being asked to approve a waste management license and consent to discharge drainage from the site into a new outfall to the Tees Estuary.

Bob Pailer, from the Environment Agency, said: "This is not just window dressing, but if people have objections to the proposal they need to give reasons. It is no use saying you don't want it here. We would need to know why."

Ray Hay, 72, from Seaton Carew, was clear why he doesn't want more ghost ships.

He said: "I'm not here for myself. I'm here for my grandchildren and their children. It will be their future that is at stake if this is allowed to go ahead."