A COUPLE who run a Colne Valley pub hope to set up a campsite in its grounds.

Simon Fallone and Beverley Martinez want to make space for eight touring caravans and several tents on land behind The Carriage House on Manchester Road, Standedge.

They also want to install shower and toilet facilities for the campsite.

The couple, who have run the pub for almost four years, say there is demand for camping in the area.

Mr Fallone said: "Since the last campsite shut here last year there has been nothing for campers or tourers.

"You either have to go to Huddersfield or Holmfirth. Marsden's information centre says it is getting requests for campsites all the time.

"We have been letting tourists camp on our land and we thought it would be nice to offer them proper facilities."

Mr Fallone and Ms Martinez originally applied to Kirklees Council for permission to do the work this year.

But there were objections from people who were worried that the campsite would affect nature and wildlife.

However, Mr Fallone and Ms Martinez are undeterred and have now re-applied.

Mr Fallone said: "People from the council's planning department have been up and had a look.

"They realised we will not really be doing anything different to what we have been doing.

"The pub was originally a transport cafe, so all the land is hard standing anyway.

"We are not really changing the land. We're just clearing it up a bit," said Mr Fallone.

Planning officials will not make a decision until after January 11.