A MURAL painted on a village hall by youngsters may be allowed to stay, despite the opposition of residents.

Members of West Rainton Youth Club, working with an artist, produced the pictures, which tell the history of the former pit village and include portraits of local children. They won funding from several sources for the project.

The mural was painted on panels and was originally intended to be a temporary feature on the outside walls of Jubilee Hall, in North Street.

The youth club, which intended that the artwork should brighten up the hall and deter vandals, is now seeking planning permission for it to be permanent.

Although the parish council is raising no objection, 13 villagers have sent objections to Durham City Council's planning department.

But on Wednesday, the council's development control committee will be recommended to approve retaining the mural.

A report to councillors says that the objectors feel the mural is out of character with the village.

"The mural is considered unattractive, an eyesore and garish in this location," said environmental services corporate director Neil Smith.

They also feel that the mural "does not reflect village life" and helps to project the image of West Rainton as a "deprived area".

The objectors also say that the artwork is a meeting point for groups of youths and vandals, and is a road safety hazard as they fear it could distract drivers.

But in his report to the committee, Mr Smith says: "The mural itself undoubtedly provides a colourful addition to the building with a scene of village history.

"The large number of objections received have been taken into account but, on balance, I am satisfied that the mural offers a positive contribution to the building."