PLANS to sell alcohol from a petrol station targeted by armed robbers have been met with objection.

The Esso garage, in Grange Road, Darlington, was raided by shotgun and knife-wielding robbers on Thursday (November 27) evening.

Two men confronted the lone member of staff, who was forced to hand over £100 in cash and the keys to her car.

The robbers fled the scene in the woman's silver Vauxhall Corsa, which was found close to the scene.

Investigations into the armed robbery are continuing.

Forecourt operator Rontec Watford Ltd has applied to Darlington Borough Council's licensing department for permission to sell alcohol for consumption off the premises.

Councillor Heather Scott, whose Park West ward includes the filling station, is against plans to sell alcohol from the location.

She said: "In view of the break-in, I am concerned that, if there had been alcohol on the premises, it would be a lot worse for the workers there if this were to happen again."

It is the second time an application for an off-licence has been made at the site, a previous bid having been withdrawn following opposition.

Cllr Scott, leader of the council's Conservative group who opposed the plan last time, added: "The residents are obviously objecting and lately there have been a number of incidents in Green Park and South Park involving youngsters and alcohol.

“Also, with the build up to Christmas, the police are doing drink driving checks.

“It is controversial for a petrol station to be selling alcohol. It is also a health issue and a road safety issue.

"The residents do not want it and there are quite a few who have approached me to say they will be objecting to it."

Rontec is applying to the council for a licence to sell alcohol between 7am and 10pm on Monday to Saturday, and 8am to 10pm on Sunday.

Anyone wishing to comment on the application can do so by writing to the Licensing and Parking Manager, Town Hall, Darlington DL1 5QT by December 17.

Witnesses to the robbery, which happened at about 10.20pm on Thursday, are asked to call Darlington police on the non-emergency number 101 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800-555-111.