Perhaps the ‘village children’ could be directed to Helmshore’s designated play area at Snig Hole/Helmshore Memorial Gardens – it is about to get thousands of pounds of investment for the benefit of all children in the area. There is absolutely no need for the school field to be used for general play as well.

I would also point out that in 2013 there are around 380 children at Helmshore Primary School, quite significantly more than those on roll at the school in the 1970s when the housing estates began to spring up. 380 children need significantly more space.

Finally, the Action Group claims that this is about footpaths across the field, and it is footpath legislation they have used in their arguments.

And yet Mr Aspin refers again to wanting “the village children to play on the rest”.

Perhaps he could make himself clear – is this about footpaths across the field, which is what is being contested with the Planning Inspectorate, or is it about open space for children to play?

Green of the South (via website)