COUNCIL chiefs may insist on watching pornographic videos to be certain they are not too hot for patrons of a sex shop.

Owners of a sex shop in Middlesbrough have applied for permission to screen samples of raunchy movies to customers before they buy them.

The movies are all rated R-18 - a special classification for hardcore sex films that are only available through licensed shops.

Now council chiefs say they may have to vet the films in case they cause offence to sex shop customers.

Current licensing conditions say the shop, in Borough Road, can only screen sex tapes provided no other customers are browsing at the time.

Each clip can only be two-and-a-half minutes long.

Pam Ross, Middlesbrough Council's principal licensing officer, said: "This ensures unsuspecting patrons are not faced with graphic viewing which is not of their choice."

She said the company would happily provide tapes for the council's licensing committee.

"It is up to members to decide whether they wish to view it."

Objectors fear the move will attract visitors looking for a cheap thrill from a free video show.