THE first meeting of Malvern's new football forum kicked off on Wednesday evening.

The forum was set up to discuss provision of football pitches in the town, after the dispute over the Sling Lane field.

A plan by Malvern Hills District Council to lease it to Newtown Sports FC was abandoned after a residents' protest.

Representatives from a number of local clubs and the county FA turned up at this week's meeting.

Richard Davies, of Newtown Sports, said: "It was a good start and I hope we can build on it. I hope a few more clubs attend next time."

One of the possibilities the forum will discuss is transferring the Sling Lane field from the district to the town council.

The next meeting is on Wednesday, September 28, at the Council House, Avenue Road, at 7pm.