RESIDENTS in Little Lever have been promised a new area of open land after the playing field they had used for years was fenced off.

Bolton Council aims to find an alternative to the King George V playing field in Little Lever.

Little Lever Sports Club, which leases the land from the council, installed the fencing to protect the playing field.

Members of the club have been plagued by dogs fouling on the pitches, youngsters churning up the ground on quad bikes and riders taking their horses on to the field.

Burnt-out stolen cars have also been dumped on the field, including one vehicle which nearly set the pavilion alight.

Phil Hardman, club secretary, added: "The club's intention was to erect the fence to protect the interests of the club over the next 20 years following the renewal of our lease.

"It was felt that the health and safety of our hundreds of members, thousands of visitors and spectators demanded it.

"The committee and members give up their free time to maintain the reputation the club brings to the area, so it is paramount that their efforts are protected."

Villagers, however, argued that the land had been bequeathed to villagers by the King George's Field Foundation, which was set up after the monarch's death so land could be bought for the public. A spokesman for Bolton Council said: "We are working to address concerns by local residents who want access to the open space, and at the same time ensure that the field remains in a good condition for playing sport."

Residents were also angered when a walkway linking Sandown Crescent and Mytham Road was closed. But council bosses are looking at making alterations to the fence lines to enable access.