NELLIE Copson's battle with the authorities continued this week when an appeal was held into a change of use for her empty shop.

The pensioner has been in dispute with Wychavon District Council over rates for her disused High Street shop. She was finally forced to pay up but is now trying to get the shop changed to residential use, a move which was rejected by the council in September 2001.

The hearing was held yesterday (Tuesday) in St Richard's House, in Victoria Square.

Victor Crumley, the inspector, set out an agenda highlighting different points that needed to be covered, such as the demand for retail units in Droitwich Spa and details of the property.

Although 83-year-old Nellie did not appear herself, her friend Ron Waters represented her, as well as Mark Heel, who also spoke on Nellie's behalf.

Wychavon's head of planning Jack Hegarty defended the decision to refuse the change of use.

It is unclear when the decision will be made by the inspector as to whether to grant the change of use but it is expected some time in the near future.