THE most talked-about parasol in Worcestershire has been given the seal of approval after a year-long battle with planners. Pete and Lynne Browne, owners of Pepper and Oz, in Malvern, called the decision a "victory for common sense".

Members of Malvern Hills District Council's planning committee voted in favour of the parasol outside the Abbey Road restaurant.

Officers recommended they refuse planning permission, saying it has a harmful effect on the listed property, historic Abbey Gateway and conservation area. In May, the Brownes were refused permission for the parasol and the removal of an awning from the building.

The council later decided the couple did not need permission to take the awning down.

This time the committee heard the parasol would not need planning permission if it were fitted on a stand rather than fixed into the ground.

Mr Browne submitted a 1,300-strong petition in support of the parasol and several councillors referred to the substantial public support. But support was not unanimous, with Coun Chris Cheeseman describing the parasol as "rather naff". Mr Browne said: "Given what happened the first time round we were very apprehensive, so we are extremely pleased and grateful for all the public support. It was becoming a pretty exhausting process for what seemed to be such a simple matter and we are grateful it is over."