A MAYOR has defended his bid to bring a super-casino to the town.

A church group sent an open letter to Middlesbrough Mayor Ray Mallon reminding him of his "social responsibilities".

They are worried about the consequences a casino could have for addicts' families, the encouragement of loan sharks and the creation of a new generation of gamblers among the thousands of students in the town.

But Mr Mallon said: "I don't believe 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 casinos, built in Britain and Mr Mallon wants one in Middlesbrough.

He said: "Some people believe that gambling is wrong and will never be able to support a casino, whatever benefits it might bring. I understand and respect that view, but I don't agree with it.

"For most people, casinos are a harmless form of entertainment, a source of fun and a reason for a night out. A minority of people are vulnerable to problem gambling and our proposals will include protection for those people, and support for people with gambling and debt problems, paid for by money earned from the casino."

He believes a regional casino would create 2,000 jobs and bring investment to Middlesbrough, and new leisure facilities.

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

Spokesman Michael Wright, a Quaker, 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 and for people in poverty.''