A SNOOKER club has reached agreement with objectors to its bid for a 24-hour drinks licence.

The compromise, limiting the licence at Durham City Snooker, Pool and Social Club to 18 hours per day, was struck between manager Eddie Rhodes, local police and civic groups.

It means the club, in Claypath, Durham, will now have the option of remaining open and serving alcohol, from 8am to 2am, seven days a week.

The amended application was submitted after talks between Mr Rhodes, North Durham licensing officer Sergeant Tim Robson and City of Durham Trust chairman Roger Cornwell.

Durham City Council's licensing committee approved the application, on condition the club sticks to its maximum occupancy of 120, with closed circuit TV coverage of the door area, and a door access system to be put in place after midnight.

Following the hearing, Mr Rhodes said: "I really don't know what the fuss has been about because we don't have any problems. We're members only, and we have police and prison officers among our membership.

"The reason we're looking to extend opening is that we believe there's potential to increase membership among restaurant workers and people in the entertainment industry who might like a game of snooker and a drink to relax after work.

"The main reason we're here is for people to play snooker or pool. Drinking is a secondary thing."

* The only 24-hour hour licence so far issued in the Durham area is an off-licence for the 24-hour Tesco Extra store, in Gilesgate.