I WRITE regarding the conviction of David Smith, chairman of Sedgley Park RUFC, for an offence with regard to noise pollution and brought by the environmental health department (Bury Times, May 3). I would like to bring the matter into some sort of perspective.

At the time of the incidents Mr Smith was acting in his voluntary role as club chairman. He has been associated with the club for more than 40 years, initially as a player.

When one remembers Sedgley Park's humble beginnings and its current position as a nationwide top-30 club with facilities to match, one must ask who has been the major driving force in this incredible rise to the upper echelons of Rugby Union. The answer is David Smith.

The club boasts an excellent first team squad comprising not just overseas and imported players, but local players who have risen through the ranks of the club's excellent youth development programme with teams from Under 7s to Under 16s, youth teams in three age groups, a girls section and three senior sides. On top of this an excellent social and supporter membership. Who has been the driving force? You've got it . . . David Smith.

Players have been selected for county sides as well as for their country and the club has been able to host representative matches up to international level. Sedgley Park is surely the "jewel in the crown" of the borough's sports clubs and associations. And who is at the helm? None other than the same David Smith.

It appears somewhat perverse and unjust that such an outstanding member of the community should be held personally responsible for what can only really be described as "minor misdemeanours".

I appreciate that no man is above the law but I believe a miscarriage of justice has taken place in this case, and would like to publicly offer David the total support of everyone involved with Sedgley Park RUFC.

PAST PLAYER