Sopranos producers have been told that they cannot film in Bloomfield, New Jersey - because council officials are unhappy about the way the show depicts Italian-Americans.

Filming permits had been approved last week but were then rejected on Monday. Mayor Raymond McCarthy's wife is Italian and has criticised the show in the past.

The decision has been criticised by some locals. The owners of an ice cream parlour, who were told that their shop would feature in an episode, have claimed that "personal feelings" have ruined a positive opportunity for residents of the town.

A final decision about the issue will be made next week.