ORGANISERS of a popular summer festival have received an increased number of complaints from local people.

At least six people have complained about noise and drunkenness at the week-long 39th Billingham International Folklore Festival.

The problems arise from the area around St Michael's School in Low Grange, where most of the acts have set up camp.

Residents around Beamish Road, which backs on to the school grounds, said they have been kept awake.

Geoff Harrison, secretary to the Low Grange Residents' Association, said: "We're not saying the festival should be closed or anything like that, but these residents deserve some peace. We simply say the dancers and musicians should stay in the school."

Director of the festival Joe Maloney said: "There was the odd incident, including one where a 15-year-old girl was drunk and trying to get in to the school. But I can tell you we don't allow any music or dancing outside of the school grounds after midnight at all.

"I suspect most of the problems are actually caused by yobs from Billingham itself who, of course, are with us all year round.

"A legitimate complaint from someone prepared to give their name is fair enough, but most of these complaints have been anonymous. I think people should be pleased that we have a festival of this calibre in Billingham."