BATTLING cobbler Tony Martin will close his 150-year-old business today - but plans to reopen in a fortnight.

Mr Martin, 37, who has won national publicity for his battle against the authorities in Durham City, had said today would be the day he shut down for good.

But he said a businessman's offer of financial support and a fundraising appeal launched by residents and customers could help him keep going.

Mr Martin began railing against local politicians two years ago when yellow lines were painted outside his shop, The Durham Cobbler, in Claypath.

He has turned his front window into a noticeboard, set up a website and become a focal point for people with gripes about local bureaucracy. The parking restrictions, he said, killed his trade, and he know owes Durham City Council in unpaid business rates.

"I can't say who the businessman is because he wants to stay anonymous, but he has said I should carry on what I'm doing and he'll back me," said Mr Martin, who is planning a book about his campaign.

"I have been looking for new premises but rather than close down and do it, I'll be able to do it while I'm still in business here."

Mr Martin, of North Shields, will spend the next two weeks sorting out his affairs before reopening on Monday, August 20.

Police are investigating death threats he received on his mobile phone and incidents of sabotage to his website.