AS manager of the North Worcestershire U12 football team, I feel I must write to you.

On the evening of May 16, my team was supposed to play Walsall Schools U12 at the Valley Stadium, home of Redditch United FC.

It was supposed to be a prestigious cup final, the climax of a tournament which is played for between district teams throughout the whole of the West Midlands.

As a venue, I thought it was ideal.

The club always pleads with the local community for support. Being a local man, I decided to approach the club with the hope of staging this final in Redditch.

I hoped to provide both excellent teams with a memorable evening in Redditch and, more importantly, strengthen the bonds between the club and these young impressionable footballers.

I understood that United's season had come to an end and I was surprised the pitch was available for the game.

The teams assembled at the Valley but were greeted with what I can only describe as a ploughed field.

The pitch was a disgrace, totally unplayable, and littered with ruts and small stones.

The ground staff had apparently begun digging up the pitch on the day of the game!

On the night before the game, I confirmed the arrangements with Redditch United and I was promised that the pitch was fine.

The referee decided the game could not go ahead and another venue had to be sought 20 minutes before the 7.30pm kick-off.

The players, parents and supporters numbering at least 150 left Redditch with a dreadful impression of the club.

Come on Redditch United, is this the way to improve support and community links?

Martyn West

Milford Close

Walkwood