A MAYOR has defended his bid to bring a super casino to Teesside.

An inter-faith churches group has sent an open letter to Middlesbrough Mayor Ray Mallon reminding him of his social responsibilities.

They are worried about the social consequences a casino could have for addicts' families, and that it could encourage loan sharks and create of a new generation of gamblers among students.

But Mr Mallon said: "I don't believe that the majority of people who can enjoy themselves responsibly should be prevented from doing so because of the minority who can't - that's the same argument as closing all pubs because some people abuse alcohol."

There are to be 17 regional, large and small casinos built in Britain. Mr Mallon wants one in Middlesbrough. He believes it would create 2,000 jobs and generate investment and leisure facilities.

The Middlesbrough Faith Communities Network Development Group also met Sandra Cartlidge, the council's head of economic and community regeneration.

Group spokesman Michael Wright said: "We expressed our concern for the vulnerable people who might be drawn into addiction and debt through the easy availability of a large number of gambling machines. This is a particular danger for the nearly 40,000 students expected to be nearby."