STAGE hypnotists are hopeful they will be allowed to perform in Chorley soon following a four-year ban.

Members of the Federation of Ethical Stage Hypnotists (FESH) have asked the borough council to review its policy on stage hypnotism.

And at a meeting of the council's licensing committee, councillors discussing the request did not rule out the possibility of overturning the ban.

In a council report, committee members were told: "In making their request, FESH argue that they were not permitted to present their case at the time of the original decision. They also indicate their view that in reaching our decision the council was misled by false claims from an individual opposed to stage hypnotism."

Councillor Ralph Snape, committee chairman, said: "At this point in time no-one has informed the department of any other new evidence than when it was refused last time. What has been agreed is that we give stage hypnotists the chance to appeal and I have said to the officers that if that happens then a special meeting will be called.

"I am giving them the opportunity to come and put their case if they have got anything fresh. If not I shall have to recommend to the committee that we carry on with the policy that we took three years ago."

The ban -- imposed in 1996 -- requires hypnotists to provide medical evidence to prove the performances are not harmful. They also must show that adequate medical supervision is provided at performances.