A FIGHT to get Hayslan Field in Malvern designated as a village green has been lost.

Worcestershire County Council has confirmed the decision to losing applicant Bob Morrison and land-owner Malvern Girls College.

The council agreed with the findings of an independent public hearing that the land should not become a village green.

Pickersleigh residents backing Mr Morrison's bid had argued that the land had become a local amenity and should be safeguarded against potential development.

Sam Hesketh, college bursar, described the announcement as "very pleasing".

"The college is a charity and as such has a duty to safeguard its assets," he said.

"In recent years the college has been forced to take action to protest its ownership of the fields. This will continue to be done.

"The college would also like to reconfirm that no decision has been taken about any future use for the land."