A PLAYGROUP, which had been in danger of losing its home, is on the verge of securing temporary accommodation.

The pre-school group in Romanby, near Northallerton, had a question mark hanging over its future after church leaders announced plans to sell off its community hall base.

They are hoping to carry out a major restoration of the 120-year-old Church of St James, but the project will have to be financed by the sale of the nearby church hall, which is a 19th Century building and the former village primary school.

Now, the playgroup's future looks set to be safeguarded after planning officials at Hambleton District Council gave their backing to a temporary building being erected in the grounds of Romanby county primary school.

They are recommending that councillors approve plans for the building to be used as a nursery classroom when they meet later this week.

The council's planning department has received several letters, both supporting and opposing the proposals.

Those in favour argue the group offers "an invaluable opportunity for many children" and should be kept within the village.

But protestors claim the plans would aggravate an existing parking problem and fear that a tarmac play area could be used as a skateboard area.

The council's planning committee meets to consider the application on Thursday at the Stone Cross civic centre, in Northallerton