Witham Sports Development Group might be split in two in an attempt to encourage more clubs to join.

The group has failed to attract many members in Witham while other groups in the district have encountered more success.

Many of the current members want to see an all-weather pitch for Witham.

But Braintree Council sports development officer Peter Melville-Rose does not want clubs to think that is all the group is about.

He wants to have a special group to discuss plans for a pitch while letting the main group get on with other business.

He said: "The pitch group will be a sub-group of the main group." But, he added, they could refocus the work of the main one for the smaller clubs who think it is all about getting a pitch.

Mr Melville-Rose, who has played a key role is setting up sports development groups throughout the district, said: "We hope to have something on paper and send it to clubs next week. We will be looking at making it more appealing to Witham clubs.

"There is a consensus that working together will prove beneficial."

The next meeting of the Witham group will be at 7.30pm on November 8 at a venue to be decided. For more information on the group ring Peter Melville-Rose at Braintree Council on 01376 552525.

By Stuart Forsyth

Reporter's e-mail: stuart_forsyth@thisisessex.co.uk

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