PLANS to scrap squash courts at the proposed new Evesham leisure centre have angered sport's fans in the Vale.

Enthusiasts have already lost the squash courts in Pershore after their leisure centre was replaced and now a similar design is planned for Evesham.

The new centre will replace the one on Davies Road and is to include a 25 metre swimming pool, sports hall, studio, health spa and treatment rooms, but no squash courts.

Andy Bott, organiser of the squash leagues at the leisure centre, said he was unhappy at the latest development.

He said: " I feel strongly about this as having no squash courts at the new centre is a serious issue and will affect a lot of people.

"I know squash is not the most popular sport in the country but that is no reason to scrap the courts altogether.

"I understand the rowing club will take on anyone in Evesham who wants to play squash, but their courts are already booked most of the time and will struggle to cope with the new influx."

Another keen squash player said: "I have used the leisure centre in Evesham for three years and I don't understand why they have decided to move now.

"A lot of people are not happy with the move, the location, the fact that we will have to pay for parking and that we will no longer be able to play squash."

Wychavon District Council spokeswoman Anne-Marie Darroch said: "The consultation period is continuing until the end of August.

"We hope to get a final design in place by the end of September.

"A number of public meetings are planned over the next month where people can come and give their views."