IN the past two decades a lot of schools throughout the country have seen their playing fields shrink or disappear completely.

A desperate need for cash and long queues of developers eager to get their hands on chunks of open land have tempted some local authorities and boards of governors to take the money.

We have also seen closures of public swimming baths (although there has been a growth in private membership sports and leisure centres) and other playing fields have gone the same way.

But at the same time in recent years we are told that childhood obesity is a growing problem - so serious that many of today's youngsters will have shorter lifespans than their parents unless something is done.

With this in mind one can sympathise with teachers at St Stephen's Junior School in Blackburn who have just held what could be their last sports day on their own playing fields.

The council plans to build a children's centre on the site.

Officials have said there will be improvements to a communal playing area across the road which can be used by the school but staff are concerned that teenagers leave glass on the site opposite.

They are also worried that time devoted to outdoor activities will decrease. This should not be allowed to happen.