A SEX shop has opened in Atherton to a storm of protest.

Residents are unhappy that their high street has attracted the Market Street "Hot Spot" and have protested to councillors, churchmen and nearby traders.

Now Wigan Metro officers are investigating the contents of the premises with a view to licensing.

The Rector of Atherton, the Rev William Baldwin, said: "The shop is not going down very well.

"Atherton is a small family community. If it was in Manchester no-one would bat an eyelid, but this is a family orientated town and I know it's not going down very well. The people are not enamoured by it.

"I plan to discuss the matter with other church leaders in Atherton and together we will come up with what action to take."

A neighbouring shopkeeper said: " There has been a lot of complaints."

A council spokesman said: "Our licensing people are checking it out. It is similar to one being run in Hindley by the same people.

"That one has been inspected and does not need a licence. Regulations regarding goods on display are very complicated.

"If the shop is not selling hard porn and the windows are boarded so that passing children cannot see what is on sale it will not need a licence."

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