A POPULAR fair looks set to return to Marchwood next year - despite complaints about the operator's previous visit to the village.

An application by Charles R Cole Amusements to stage another event was given a favourable hearing at a meeting of the parish amenities committee.

However, councillors said they wanted the company to meet residents and iron out problems caused by this year's fair.

Chairman Ron Vango-Fischer said: "We've had complaints about noisy generators, damage to hedges and the smell of diesel fuel drifting across the site.

"I'm told the rides were decorated by paintings of very young girls in raunchy clothing, which some villagers say is unacceptable in today's climate."

Councillor Lesley Mason complained about the noise made by people dismantling the fair in the early hours.

She said: "It was very close to my house and I had to put up with a lot of shouting and banging late at night.

"If it goes ahead again it should not be dismantled on the Saturday night. Sunday morning would be better from my point of view."

Councillor David Makinson confirmed that the fair, held at Cork Field last April, was not taken down until 12.45am.

Councillor Jean Piernicki said the event had drawn teenagers away from the village centre.

"There was less hassle around here," she said. "I'm for it going ahead again next year as long as it's a similarly small event."

Councillor Darryl Hindle said: "I'm also in favour but residents have voiced concerns and we need to iron out some of the difficulties."

Cllr Hindle called for a meeting between householders and representatives from Charles R Cole Amusements, including Keith Granger, who had been due to address the committee but was unable to attend.

Mr Granger's application to stage another fair was supported in principle, but will depend on the outcome of his meeting with residents.