Neighbours are battling to stop a Worthing pub winning a late licence, saying it will lead to more noise and crime.

They say if Cloisters bar, a converted church in High Street, Worthing, is allowed to stay open until 1am, other pubs and clubs in the town will follow suit.

The owners of the nearby Liquid Lounge said they would push for a 4am licence if today's bid succeeded.

The bar has been closed for some time but its new owner, the Angmering-based Chapman Group, wants to reopen it.

Resident Gillian Winson, 69, of Elm Road, off High Street, Worthing, said she would be devastated if Cloisters had its application granted.

She said: "It would have a terrible effect on our quality of life.

"We had so much trouble when it was open until midnight. We had people dealing drugs in a doorway opposite, regular fights and awful noise.

"I once caught a man and woman urinating in my garden. Couples made out in doorways. The only way I could get to sleep was by using ear plugs."

Twelve residents have written letters of objection.

Tina Crighton, also of Elm Road, said: "When it was open, the music blared out and there were always some idiots who wanted a fight.

"I would feel very angry and let down if the application was granted. It is about time the residents were listened to."

Guildbourne Court Residents' Association, which has 35 flats on its list, has objected to the application on the grounds it would worsen an already unacceptable situation.

A spokesman said: "We are fearful of repeats of this type of unsocial and disgusting behaviour, which includes urinating over our properties, smearing walls with excrement and performing sexual acts."

The owner of The Liquid Lounge in Chatsworth Road said if a 1am licence was granted to Cloisters, the nearby Green Mango bar would apply for one too, while the Liquid Lounge would apply for a 4am licence.

Sussex Police have recommended the application should be refused on the grounds it would worsen the town's late-night drinking problems.

Councillors will discuss Cloisters' application at a meeting today.

Chapman Group's managing director, Chris Chapman, said: "We aim to serve alcohol only with meals after about 8pm. We're ripping out the bar and will serve drinks to tables cabaret-style.

"We're investing a large amount of money in the venue and want to maintain its original character."