PEOPLE living in a Rossendale street are protesting about plans to sell off a piece of land traditionally used as a children's playing field.

Angry locals have sent a petition to Rossendale Council to voice their concerns over losing the land which has been used by children living in Ashworth Road, Waterfoot, for the past 30 years.

David Windle, 42, and his family are helping to lead the fight to ensure the land remains in the ownership of the council.

Known locally as 'Pearcy' the land is used for football and other sports as well as picnics in the summer months.

David, a taxi driver, who lives with his wife Karen, 38, and two sons, Stewart, four, and Ryan, 10, said: "The children around here need somewhere to play.

"It's perfect because it's used by youngsters and elderly people to enjoy the open air.

"It would be such a shame to see it developed as the children have nowhere to play apart from in the street as we have no gardens.

"All 36 residents living here have signed the petition as they feel very strongly about the land being kept for use by the community.

"Some people even moved here mainly because of the attractive grassed area."

An unnamed potential buyer wants to purchase the site for commercial development.

Waterfoot councillor Dave Hancock is to oppose the plan. He said: "Three years ago the council put this piece of land up for sale and I opposed it then as it's the only bit of green land in the area.

"Kids use it to play on so I understand the parents' concerns but it will ultimately lie with the officers to make a decision."

A council spokesman said: "The consultation period lasts between four and six weeks. During that time residents' and councillors' representations will be taken into consideration before an officer makes a decision as to whether the land should be sold."