A Moray youth group has written to all local councillors seeking their help in solving what they say is an issue that affects the safety of children in a local park.
The Forres Area Soccer 7s organise regular football sessions for young people in what they describe as the ‘Jewel’ of a venue at Grant Park.
With a well maintained pavilion the park provides a home for all junior, intermediate and senior games organised by the group as well as training on a weekly basis.
Formed in 1993 the 7s has become a firmly established club that provides football for boys and girls regardless of their ability.
Now, however, the club’s chairman, Shaun Moat, says that the failure of Moray Council to cut the grass at Grant Park on a regular basis is posing serious problems for the club.
In an open letter to Moray Councillors, Mr Moat highlighted how the club contacted the council last Monday to request the grass be cut.
However, the pitches were re-lined but the grass remained several inches long – and posed a potential risk of injury to children.
Mr Moat said: “I find it frustrating that we as a country are trying to keep our children active and involved in sport but not providing adequate facilities for children to do this in a safe manner.
“I know as a council you are looking at reducing cost but this are is not only used by Forres Area Soccer 7s but is also Andersons playing field.
“We also find it hard to spot dog fouling which is also increasing and this also is putting children at risk.
“If you have any suggestions on what we can do to assist in getting grass cut more regularly and white lining done after grass is cut.”
Mr Moat has also sent copies of his letter to Moray MP Angus Robertson.
Parks in Moray were hit when the local authority reduced funding as part of their cost-saving measures, with a review announced last year that was aimed to shave over half a million pounds annually.