A BEER lover has attracted a barrel-load of protests with plans to build a micro brewery in his garage.

Barry Tyson, of Pole Lane, Darwen, wants to develop his hobby to produce two barrels, or 72 gallons, of beer per week.

But some neighbours have protested against the plan, believing it will bring unpleasant smells and be out of character with the area.

Local councillor Frank Connor has also urged Blackburn with Darwen's planning committee to refuse the application, stating that this would be a business, not a hobby, as the 'brewery' would be producing almost 600 pints of beer a week.

Resident John Roberts, of Bosley Close, said: "This is bang in the middle of a residential area and shouldn't be allowed. We have written letters of objection to the council and will be speaking at the meeting on Thursday.

"We think cars parking near the garage would lead to an obstruction in the back street which is the main access to some properties. It could also set a precedent to others to do the same. We are sending a petition in the form of a letter to all councillors sitting on the committee."

But Mr Tyson, who was previously carrying out his hobby in his kitchen, said people would not notice a difference. He said: "It was getting too big for my kitchen and my wife was getting fed up of it, so I decided to move it to the garage.

"Some residents think I'm going to have the micro brewery on the space outside the garage but it will be inside. It's like home-brew but on a slightly larger scale. It is a hobby."

John Holland, of the Campaign for Real Ale, said: "This micro-brewery is not 'Thwaites mark two'. There won't be lorries coming in and out or any noise and disturbance. I'd be surprised if anyone, unless their house backed on to the garage, even knew he was brewing.

"Breweries don't produce a smell 24 hours a day. It might be once a week."

Mr Tyson plans to brew on a Tuesday or Wednesday, from 11am to 4.30pm or 5pm. The following day the beer would be picked up by the landlord of the local Black Horse Hotel, who buys it, taking no longer than ten minutes.

Planning officers have recommended that the committee should approve it for a trial period of 18 months subject to conditions, including a scheme controlling brewing odours and fan noise.