A racecourse has applied for a 24-hour licence entertainment licence, to the concern of councillors in neighbouring villages.

Great Leighs Estates Ltd, which runs Chelmsford City Racecourse in Great Leighs, has applied to run indoor sporting events, films, plays, boxing, wrestling, music and dance performances and sell alcohol round the clock.

Course clerk Andy Waitt said there are no plans to operate 24 hours but the blanket application will mean there is no need to apply for permission every time an event, wedding, or function is held at the course.

Parish councillors in Great Notley, 2.2 miles away, and Felsted, 6.8 miles away, have objected, saying late night events will cause nuisance and disruption.

* Full story in tomorrow's Times.