RACISM in football is a big issue right now, and quite rightly, so we were sorry to hear of one of our own local clubs being involved in a racist allegation.

Immediately after Ledbury Town's away match at Lye on Wednesday, Max Hall, a sports reporter who had been covering the game for the Express & Star newspaper, made a complaint to police at Halesowen about racist comments he claims were made by club chairman Chris Stephens and a supporter.

We should point out that while Mr Stephens has told us he did hear racist comments made during the game, he says they were not made by him or any member of Ledbury Town Football Club.

What we hope is that these allegations are fully and properly investigated by both the police and FA and, if proven, that action is taken which sends out a strong deterrent message.

The Football Association trumpets the success of this country in kicking racism out of football, and there is no doubt the atmosphere in grounds has been transformed since the 1970s, but there is no room for complacency and that applies at all levels of football.

The European governing body UEFA has promised to get tough on racism, but so far this has only been talk. Tough examples need to be made if this problem is not to creep back into the game.

IT is good to see Malvern Hills Conservators getting to grips with clearing trees and restoring Victorian views from Great Malvern to the hills.

Work to really link the town centre with the hills is long overdue. Sadly, like everything in Malvern, we are told it will take a few years.