CRIME prevention bosses today expressed their disappointment after plans to site an all-weather sports pitch in the centre of Clitheroe were rejected at a public meeting.

Ribble Valley Crime and Disorder Prevention Partnership, spearheaded by Ribble Valley Borough Council, wanted to site the pitch at the St Michael and St John's Playing Field in Lowergate after identifying a lack of facilities for young people in the area. The meeting at St Michael and St John's Social Centre had been called so that residents and interested parties could have their say on the matter.

Ribble Valley Borough Council policy development officer Bill Alker, who co-ordinates the work of the partnership, said: "The meeting was well attended by a cross section of people, but mainly by residents of Candlemakers Court and Bayley Fold.

"While a number of different views were expressed, we were left in no doubt as to the strength of feeling against the proposal by many residents."

"We are very disappointed with the outcome, but will now look for alternative sites to address the problem."