A CAFE culture that would mirror cities such as Paris and Rome could be coming to Worcester.

Tourists and residents may find themselves sipping coffee and eating al fresco into the late evening in the city's Friar Street if a plan to pedestrianise the area 24 hours a day is given the go-ahead.

The plan was suggested at Worcester City Council's full meeting on Tuesday night and follows a petition by the Eagle Vaults pub in the road.

Joanne Shenton, who runs the pub with her husband Paul, said: "At the moment, businesses can only have tables outside from 10.30am to 4.30pm. After that, they have to be put away because the street is no longer pedestrianised.

"To us, and other restaurants in this area, it doesn't make sense. We have therefore started a petition and so more than 150 people have signed.

"Eating outdoors provides a friendly atmosphere and brings more trade to Worcester. It looks lovely too, much better than all the parked cars which clutter up Friar Street night now."

The campaign has got the backing of Labour councillor David Candler, who represents St John's.

He said: "The heatwaves this summer demonstrate the irrelevance of the 4.30pm limit. It is time we reviewed the arrangements to enable residents and visitors to sit al fresco on warm evenings."

Councillor Martin Clarke, the cabinet member with responsibility for urban renaissance, which incorporates tourism, was more cautious about the idea.

He said: "It would be great for tourists, but we also have to consider traders and residents. What impact would it have on them? This is a good chance to encourage these activities, but we have to review it."

Matt Beck, assistant manager of The Conservatory, in Friar Street, said: "It would be lovely to leave the tables out longer. The customers are always surprised when we ask them to move indoors at 4.30pm and they comment on how silly it is."

Hayley Massey, a customer at the Conservatory, who works at Flowers of Worcester, wasn't so sure.

She said: "As a shop worker I understand the need to have access for deliveries, but as a customer I think it would be nice to sit outside. I hope the council can come to a satisfactory conclusion for everyone."

Council officers are now set to investigate whethere 24-hour pedestrianisation would be viable.