HORSE-DRAWN carriages could be set to return to the streets of a North-East town for the first time in nearly 100 years.

Darlington's Independent Taxi Traders Organisation is backing a bid to grant the horse-drawn cab a Hackney carriage licence.

But Darlington council chiefs say there are no by-laws currently in place to regulate the use of horse-drawn carriages, last seen on the town's streets 96 years ago, and work has still to be done before an application could be granted.

Michael Kennedy, chairman of the independent taxi drivers, said: "This could be the first horse-drawn carriage since 1904 to receive a Hackney carriage licence plate in Darlington.

"It would be good for Darlington and for the tourists that come here."

The carriage, which dates back to 1904, is owned by Darlington man Marcus Nimmo and was built by Lord Broom.

Mr Kennedy, who approached Mr Nimmo with the idea of putting the carriage into use, said the idea had the backing of the local tourism community.

He said: "If we can get a licence then we may be in a position to apply for a grant for another three. The vehicle could make up to £1,500 a week and will pay for its own running costs."

Barry Pearson, Darlington Borough Council's commercial licensing manager, said the council's cabinet would discuss the issue on July 11.

However, he said there was a long process to go through before it could be granted.