BRIERFIELD bridge players are celebrating after Pendle councillors backed down and decided not to demolish their home.

More than 100 members of the Clitheroe Road club were packed into Nelson Town Hall ready to fight against plans to add the property to those being knocked down for housing redevelopment.

But council leader Alan Davies immediately announced that councillors had had a change of heart.

Club member Brian Irlem said: "It comes as an enormous relief to the vast majority of people here that a decision has been made.

"If we need to make any cosmetic alterations to the premises, we will do all we can to ensure that is done."

Bridge club members were shocked when they received a letter this week telling them their home was to be included in the Brierfield Canal Corridor clearance area, despite assurances it was safe.

Councillors were taken aback by the level of support for the club which has 230 members and only moved to Clitheroe Road 18 months ago.

Councillor John David (LibDem, Old Laund Booth) said: "It is very clear from what has been written in letters and what we have seen there is support for the club.

"I think there is a case for saying if we are going to develop the area behind the club that could be done unfettered by any buildings remaining."

His colleague Coun Tony Greaves (LibDem, Waterside) called on the council to apologise for proposing the demolition.

But no official apology was offered. Councillors did agree to add numbers 4 and 6 Clitheroe Road to the redevelopment area.