FIELD FIGHTERS pledged £2,000 in a single night for the fight to have Wesley Guild in Pennington declared a village green.

Campaigners were delighted when more than 200 people turned out at a public meeting at Leigh Cricket Club. They say it demonstrates just how strong local feelings remain despite building work having already started on the controversial site.

Wesley Guild Preservation Group have so far managed to meet expenses, but with more legal battles looming fees are going to run into thousands of pounds and an appeal has gone out to the people of Leigh to support the campaign.

Julia Cooper of the Group, says if anyone wishes to make a contribution as the campaign reaches a climax, they can send cheques made payable to Wesley Guild Preservation Group to 3 Beech Crescent, Leigh - with names and address for accounts purposes.

"The fact that work is underway does not affect the status of the land. We still have as much chance as ever of achieving Village Green status," said Julia.

And Natalie Blackmun of the Open Space Society has told the campaigners: "The builder is taking a big risk. If the application is successful, the land must be restored to its original condition."

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