A GROUP of workmates have started a petition opposing plans for Kidderminster's first lap-dancing club.

The four women, aged 22 to 30, work together in the town centre and say they are "appalled" at the plans.

"Men in Kidderminster already show little respect for women - this will only make things worse," said one of the women.

The quartet, who did not want to be named, have already collected more than 20 names from customers, including a handful of men.

The proposal is to turn Tico's wine bar in Blackwell Street into a club featuring adult entertainment, including private topless lap-dancing and pole-dancing. Developers say it will be tasteful and would attract business clients to the town.

But the petition organisers say it will make the town look "sleazy" and is not suitable for a small town.

"We have all worked in Kidderminster for years and a lot of the lads here have a horrible attitude towards women - they are ungentlemanly to say the least. This will only make matters worse."

The petition is to be sent to Wyre Forest District Council which is still waiting for an application for a public entertainment licence to be submitted for the club.