Reptile keeper Darren Finnerty had applied for permission to add to his existing collection of snakes under the Dangerous Wild Animals Act.

But his application for premises in Anchorsholme was thrown out by Blackpool Council's public protection committee after it heard that some of Mr Finnerty's neighbours feared for their safety.

Ward councillor Tony Williams told the meeting that one lady had come to him in tears because she had an extreme phobia of snakes.

Another resident said in a letter read out to councillors that he had had sleepless nights worrying that the snakes might escape.

Coun Williams, who has previously worked at Blackpool Zoo, also claimed there was a world shortage of anti-venom and said there were instances of people in other parts of the country being bitten by dangerous serpents.

He said: "History will tell us that accidents do happen and that's what's concerning all of us.

"I have worked at Blackpool Zoo for six years and am aware of the implications."

Mr Finnerty, a 34-year-old father of three, already keeps a collection of non-venomous snakes in a specially converted garage at his home.

His application was supported by reptile expert Mark Whitworth, of The Reptile Room in Anchorsholme Lane East, Cleveleys, where Darren also works, and by council-employed enforcement officers.

The application had been deferred from a previous meeting of the committee so that councillors could visit Mr Finnerty's home and speak to some of his neighbours.

Mr Finnerty, who has kept reptiles for 18 years, told yesterday's meeting: "I think everyone realised how much time and work I have spent on preparations to do this.

"It is a long-standing passion that I have had for reptiles.

"I understand that other people don't like reptiles, but I have done everything that I have been asked to do."

Appeal

In order to comply with the conditions of the licence he had assured council chiefs each snake tank would be locked, and stored in a double-locked safe room with inner and outer doors.

After the hearing Mr Finnerty said he would appeal against the decision.

He has 21 days in which to submit an appeal.