AN application for a community centre in Teesdale to hold an entertainment licence has split village opinion.

Sure Start, which manages the Randolph Centre, in Evenwood, want the licence to be able to perform plays, films, live music and indoor sporting events between 7am and 11pm.

Teesdale District Council, which will consider the application, has received a petition of 42 names objecting to the plan, however 11 villagers have signed a petition in favour.

Sure Start say the licence would give the venue greater flexibility. Objectors say noise would increase.

In a letter to the council, Ellen Musgrave, from Shirley Crescent, in Evenwood, said: "If this licence is granted our lives will be a nightmare."

Norma Clennell, on behalf of the outreach group at the centre, said: "We feel the younger age group should be encouraged to use the centre."

The application will be considered by the district council's licensing sub-committee at noon tomorrow.