WORK to improve the neighbourhood spirit in St Peter's has been highlighted by a community leader as a key concern.

Sue Sanders, chairman of the St Peter's Village Hall Association, said she thought people did not show how much they cared for St Peter's.

"We used to have a really nice community spirit.

"Whether it's because people commute these days I don't know but we don't have that spirit anymore," said Mrs Sanders.

"I've been looking for two years for an accountant and booking clerk. We've been advertising and asking around but no one comes forward."

Aside from concerns about residents' involvement, she added that the campaign to build a community centre serving St Peter's remains the top priority.

"Ever since work developing St Peter's started, it hasn't had proper facilities for young people.

"Of course, the village hall can cater for pre-school children and groups like the Brownies, but we can't have any ball games there.

"The centre should definitely have a sports hall and showers, so football and cricket teams from St Peter's can be formed, as well as a stage.

"We are going to need funding so is the city council going to help?"

St Peter's vicar, the Rev Jan Fox, said she agreed that more money should be spent on providing facilities for the young.

"Personally, I think if they spent money on youth services they would not need to spend it on combating anti-social behaviour," she said.

"For example, there used to be church youth clubs run by volunteers. These days professionals have to do it and use professional equipment."

Mrs Sanders added that more should also be done to improve the appearance of St Peter's.

She said the council could introduce wardens to look after the area.