A STOCKTON pub has given up its fight to extend its opening hours.

Yates', in High Street, had applied to Stockton Borough Council to be open to midnight on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays.

But following months of objections from the police, the management yesterday decided to withdraw the application.

The idea of Yates' opening later than other places in the town had been criticised by the police for encouraging other pubs in the High Street area to apply for longer drinking and entertainment licences.

A police spokesman also questioned the level of disturbance the extended hours would cause.

He said: "These premises are within 100 yards of the junction of the High Street and Yarm Lane. Police regard that area as the major site for public disorder within Stockton."

He added that the police feel any extension could potentially worsen the problems already faced in this area