THE cost of letting youngsters run riot in a village near Worcester could be much greater than the cost of running a sports field and pavilion.

The claim was made by Eve Birch, of Callow End Playing Field Association, speaking at Powick Parish Council.

Mrs Birch is a member of the council, which was considering a formal constitution with Callow End Playing Field Association.

The council-owned playing field and pavilion are run by the PFA and used by a football team and a fortnightly youth club, but members heard that income did not even cover running costs.

Helen Jepson said they should do everything possible to support the volunteers who run the pavilion, but Rod MacKichan was anxious about the council having complete financial liability.

"They are trying to achieve social benefits for the youth of the village. I personally can't see that the costs are great, compared to the benefits," said councillor John Kirton.

Mrs Birch said the PFA did not want responsibility for maintaining or improving the pavilion.

"We provide a good service at minimal cost. This could be a pittance compared to what it could cost if the youth of the village is allowed to run riot," she said.

"The youth club has given youngsters an insight into respecting the building rather than destroying it."

Chairman Andy Lamb reminded members that a similar discussion was likely to take place in 12 months' time over the Hospital Lane Playing Fields.

"We will need to treat their application with equal equanimity," he said.