A SCHOOL once attended by a comedy legend could become a tea shop.

Teesdale District Council is expected to approve a change of use at 16 High Green, Gainford, near Darlington.

The building was once part of Gainford Academy, whose most famous former pupil was Arthur Stanley Jefferson, who went on to become comedy star Stan Laurel.

The building was a doctor's surgery until two years ago, when Drs Ian Waldin and Mike Neville moved to a purpose-built surgery on the outskirts of the village.

Thirteen people have objected to the scheme with concerns about lack of parking and extra traffic.

The district council has also received ten letters backing the plan, saying it would be an asset to the village and would stop the building becoming neglected.

The applicant, Karen Birch, said she wants to use locally-based suppliers and producers for her home-baked foods.

Planning officer Wendy Thompson has recommended the scheme is approved.

She said: "The proposed development is considered to be an appropriate use for the ground floor of this building.

"It is acknowledged there may be some low level of disturbance to adjoining neighbours, but where possible these things be limited and mitigated."

Stan Laurel, who adopted his stage name after moving to America, joined Gainford Academy in 1903. Prior to that he went to King James I Grammar School in Bishop Auckland, but neglected his studies because of his love of entertaining.

The planning committee meets on Wednesday in Barnard Castle.