YOUNGSTERS are being told to use a sports pitch properly or lose it after a series of damage prompted the council to ban casual use.

Tendring Council allows casual use of the all-weather pitch at Dovercourt Bay Lifestyles when there are no group bookings on the site.

But at the end of September people rode mopeds and bikes on the surface, caused damage to goalposts and nets, and some went on without paying.

A decision was taken to ban casual use, which is usually available through school holidays and at weekends, from September 27.

But, after a large number of youngsters turned up to play football on Monday, the council has chosen to reverse its decision.

Mick Skeels, councillor responsible for leisure, said those using the pitch need to do so responsibly for the sake of all.

He said: “There was concern that there were safety issues, especially when a moped was ridden around the pitch.

“Also we set a very nominal charge of £1.30 and for that youngsters can stay on there all day if they want to.

“However, when we see the facility and that offer being abused we have to consider the situation very carefully.

“In the end we have decided that we do not want to punish those who are using the pitch properly and it will be open again today as normal.”

Mr Skeels said it was a great pity for those who had been denied access but the council felt it needed to take action.

He said: “We hope the short withdrawal of the offer will have sent out a message and that youngsters will now be able to enjoy their football and respect the facility.

“We want to see the pitch used as much as possible but will have to look at things again should there be further problems.”

A normal pitch booking is £30 an hour.