PLANS to convert a snooker hall into flats were dramatically rejected at a Town Hall meeting today.

Dozens of protesters, many with placards and banners, arrived at the planning committee's meeting yesterday in a bid to save Darlington Snooker Club, on Corporation Road.

And, after a half-hour hearing, Darlington Borough Council's planning committee - made up of councillors - sided with the protesters. Council officers had recommended the flats be approved.

The snooker club's supporters, who had crowded into the committee room, greeted the decision with applause and cries of 'well done'.

The snooker club owner, who wanted to build the flats, said he will consider an appeal.