MORE than a month after pleading with Blackburn Rovers for a designated play-area for youngsters residents say they are furious that nothing has been done.

But today the football club and a local councillor pledged to solve the problem.

Father-of-four Roland Jones, who lives with his family in the shadow of Ewood Park, made the appeal for a safe play area after Rovers bosses sent a stern letter warning parents to keep their children off the club car parks.

The letter, sent to residents in July, stated that the club must "take account of our responsibility for the safety of everyone including trespassers and it is clear there is a risk of harm to the children." It went on: "We don't want to get heavy-handed about this matter but will take appropriate steps to prevent trespass and the risk of injury to children of families living in the area."

An angry Mr Jones hit back demanding an alternative play area for the youngsters and accused the club of putting profits before the community.

Despite receiving a visit from the club's safety manager Mel Highmore assuring Mr Jones that a play area would be created, nothing has been done.

"I appreciate Mr Highmore's visit," said Mr Jones. "But as far as I am concerned the club was out of order when they sent that letter and I'm still hoping that something will be done."

Rovers' safety manager John Newsham said the problem was being discussed.

"Talks are still at an early stage but we are working with the council and residents to come up with a solution," said Mr Newsham.

Ewood ward councillor Maureen Bateson said: "Obviously we are concerned because children are playing on the car parks where there are broken bottles. Rovers are equally concerned and we are all working together to sort this out."

Picture: Roland Jones with his protest, with local youngsters