But the plan is facing a protest from residents who fear late night noise.

Neighbours of the Laburnum Inn in Hackney Road, Matlock, have launched a petition against the move which they claim will make their lives a misery.

The application would extend opening hours to 1am on weeknights and 2.30am at weekend, with the landlord wanting to keep his "options open".

A BBC survey carried out across England and Wales found there has not been one application for any pub to take advantage of a new licensing act and opt for complete 24-hour opening.