A PUB in a Teesdale town is hoping to extend its opening hours to allow late-night drinking, despite protests from residents.

The White Swan, in Swan Street, Evenwood, wants to serve alcohol until 1.20am on Fridays and Saturdays, closing at 2am.

Its current licence allows the sale of alcohol until 11pm Monday to Saturday, with 20 minutes' drinking-up time.

Pub owner Lee Fullarton has applied to Teesdale District Council for a new licence.

Mr Fullarton has also asked for permission to play live music until 12.30am and recorded music until 1am on Fridays and Saturdays.

Despite proposing to install CCTV at the pub and signs to promote consideration of residents, families living nearby and the police have voiced concern.

Three objection letters from residents of Swan Street were sent to the council. One said: "We already have fighting, shouting, people urinating outside our house, plus damage to cars parked in the street."

A letter from Bishop Auckland police said: "The detrimental consequences to the quality of life of those adversely affected negate the benefit of those supporting the proposals."

Mr Fullarton said: "We will be more aware of the condition that people leave this pub in.

"We'll be taking more responsibility for the people who drink in here."

The application will be considered at Teesdale House, Galgate, Barnard Castle, on Monday, at 10.30am.