IT is a sad spectacle to see council members and their officers in such disarray over an issue that should be close to everyone's heart - the provision of sports facilities for young people in Malvern. In the run-up to the election they have spun through U-turn after U-turn, issuing contradictory statements almost daily.

I attended a meeting with several other people at the council offices on April 12 and, yes, Coun Wells stated categorically that he had informed Newtown Sports Juniors Football Club that no lease would be granted to it, or any other body, now or in the future. This decision was subsequently confirmed in writing by both Coun Wells and Chris Bocock, the council's chief executive.

Other things were said at that meeting too:

1. That Sling Lane playing fields would be managed and maintained by a playing fields association representing the council, local sports groups and local residents.

2. That the association would be helped to improve the quantity and quality of the playing surfaces and provide proper changing and toilet facilities.

3. That balancing the needs of players, spectators, local residents and preserving the best aspects of the natural environment would be paramount.

4. That the use of the fields would be open to all, but with special emphasis on meeting the needs of the many well- managed youth groups in Malvern.

All of these plans were enthusiastically supported by everyone there and, it would appear, they would give the club the extra facilities it needs at no cost to itself.

It seems the only point of contention is the club's insistence on obtaining an exclusive 25-year lease for the site. If the club would stop demanding total and exclusive control of this valuable community asset for the next quarter century, the issue would be resolved amicably and to the benefit of all involved, not least Malvern's young footballers and those who work so hard on their behalf.

John Denham, Stanley Road,

Malvern.