Behind the scenes

Mike Roberts, managing director of Superia Supplies, based on the East Worthing industrial estate, said the move by borough councillors to grant him a sex shop licence would simply give people a choice.

He said: For me it s a matter of principle I really believe our customers should have a choice. It s about democracy.

The decision means customers of which there are one million nationwide will be able to order and collect their goods at a retail counter inside the premises.

It follows the refusal of a similar application last month for premises in Tarring Road.

Before this, however, an application had not been received by Worthing Borough Council since the mid-eighties, which was refused.

The recent applications prompted a moral argument, with church groups organising petitions against both proposals.

See Herald, July 12, for full story.