However, it should be remembered that it is Diss Cricket Club which, in addition to the general maintenance, pays for the weekly grass cutting, litter picking and removal of broken glass and dog excrement.

The club is happy to do this and to maintain public access but the drain on its resources, in terms of money and the time of its volunteer helpers is compounded by the cost of repairs and the replacement of stolen equipment.

It is rapidly becoming unsustainable.

The problems are not exaggerated as the number of crime reports to Norfolk Police over recent years will testify.

Indeed, it is as a result of protracted consultations with the police and Diss Town Council that the club is exploring the possibility of environmentally acceptable, secure fencing.

At present, we are unable to extend the use of the Rectory Meadow facilities to other sporting and winter activities or to use the ground for county cricket matches, thereby encouraging visitors to the town, because safety cannot be guaranteed.

Like the football, rugby and athletics clubs, Diss Cricket Club provides a high level of worthwhile sporting activity for the young people of the area. We have some 60 youngsters on our books. The loss of such a facility would be irrevocable.

If the club should elect to move elsewhere, the meadow would be left open and untended, unless the town council was to undertake its maintenance at considerable cost to council tax payers.

Nor would your correspondents be able to gaze out on idyllic scenes of the young and old enjoying themselves in a safe and healthy environment.

P.J. Quick, Chairman, Diss Cricket Club