MORE than 2,000 people marched through the streets at the weekend to protest at plans to build a bail hostel.

The Probation Service hopes to build a 25-bed hostel on land at Picktree Lane, Chester-le-Street.

Protestors claim the hostel would lead to an increase in crime in the area.

The hostel plans were rejected by councillors last December, but the Probation Service has appealed against the decision.

The matter will be decided by a public inquiry due to start tomorrow.

Protestors staged their march through the town centre on Saturday to draw attention to the issue. Organisers estimated that up to 2,200 people took part.

The march started at Chester-le-Street Hospital and finished at the Civic Centre.

The route took in Front Street, which was packed with Saturday morning shoppers.

Bill Dinsdale, protest committee chairman, said: "We had an absolutely super turnout with people who were doing their shopping joining in as we came along the street.

"The level of feeling among the people of Chester-le-Street about this hostel is very high, and we are determined to fight it."

The march was bigger than last December's event, which attracted about 1,400 people.

The site for the proposed hostel is owned by Chester-le-Street District Council, and is in the middle of a residential area.

The protest committee has raised funds from residents and local businesses to pay for a legal team and planning expert to represent it at the inquiry, which starts at the Red Lion pub at 10am tomorrow.