PLANS to open a sex shop at a former restaurant off the East Lancashire Road have been met with opposition from residents.

The Star previously reported that adult firm Cocktails Ltd had made a bid to St Helens Council on March 21 for the grant of a licence for the premises in Windle, with the news receiving a mixed reaction from Star readers.

Opponents have pointed to the negative image they feel the premises would present to people travelling into the town.

Flyers setting out objections were circulated around Eccleston last weekend.

And former Windle Conservative councillor Wally Ashcroft, who is standing in the ward for next month's local elections, expressed strong opposition to the plans.

"It's an absolute disgrace, it's not what you want on the main road where cars are passing," he said.

"It would give a poor image of St Helens. I'm totally opposed to it and I would urge anyone else if they're opposed to it to write to the town hall to make their feelings known.

"It is not the right image for this town, I have strong feelings about this."

However, others feel the town should show a more relaxed stance on the proposals.

On Star reader wrote: “A lot of people travel to Liverpool to use Ann Summers and this would be no different.

“Lots of couples use this type of shop and there is nothing to be ashamed about.”

Anyone who wishes to object to the plans must do so in writing to the Licensing and Land Charges Manager, Wesley House, Corporation Street, St Helens, WA10 1HF within 28 days of the application having been receive