Calls for astro pitch to open later for village youngsters

The astroturf pitch in Milton of Campsie is currently only available until 4pm.

At a recent meeting of Milton of Campsie Community Council, schoolboy Jack Davidson spoke out to win support for longer hours - particularly since “a significant number” of local teenagers had been working hard to help clean up the village’s former railway station.

A community council spokesperson said: “Jack indicated that they were willing to assist in keeping the area tidy and were keen to do what was necessary to convince local residents that they were willing to make use of the facility without causing excessive disturbance.”

There are now plans to hold a meeting between community councillors, the police, local youngsters and the council to find a way forward.

Gordon Currie, the council’s director of education and children’s services, said: “The decision to stop bookings after 4pm was a historic arrangement that was taken following consultation with local residents. We are currently reviewing all the various options available for the pitch.”