A truce has been called between a football club and cricket club over the use of a town s recreation ground. Biggleswade United FC had slammed the town council after it refused them permission to use an area of Fairfield Road Recreation Ground, normally u

A truce has been called between a football club and cricket club over the use of a town's recreation ground.

Biggleswade United FC had slammed the town council after it refused them permission to use an area of Fairfield Road Recreation Ground, normally used by Biggleswade Cricket Club, for two junior football teams.

The council said the area had been dedicated to cricket and the cricketers applauded its decision with club treasurer Matthew Twigg saying: "Having football played on the playing area would have a major impact on safety. It is the only cricket facility in Biggleswade.

"There are plenty of places youth football teams can go."

United secretary Tracey James immediately hit back saying many junior football teams had been forced to play outside Biggleswade because of the lack of facilities in the town.

"The Bedfordshire FA has reported that Biggleswade has the lowest level of participation in youth football in Bedfordshire and one of the lowest in the whole of England," she said.

She also said two junior teams who wanted to play on the recreation ground might have to fold.

Last week, United officials met with the town council.

"We were told the area we wanted to use was a no go area for football," said Mrs Jones.

"We could see the cricket club's point of view and we have found pitches our junior sides can use. The teams will not fold and will be able to play in their leagues this season.