HUNDREDS of Quarry Bank residents have signed a petition objecting to the opening of a new off-licence.

Traders, residents and a local councillor have rallied together to voice their concerns about plans for the shop on High Street, as they believe there are already enough places to buy alcohol in the area.

Reg Singh, who has owned The Wine Shop on High Street, for 27 years, is the main driving force behind the petition, which has attracted hundreds of signatures.

He said: "It's not about competition, it's about being overrun with the same kind of thing. We want something different, like a hardware shop or discount store."

Cllr Bryan Cotterill, who represents Quarry Bank, hopes the petition, which he will present to the licensing officer, will carry some weight.

He added: "Local residents should be able to have a say. There are six other places that sell alcohol, only a stones throw away and I say that is sufficient. Enough is enough.

"We don't want any more. It's giving lip service to alcoholism."

Councillor Rachel Harris, cabinet member with responsibility for licensing, said: "We can confirm an application for an off-licence has been received for these premises. We have received two objections to date and the closing date for any further objections is June 29."