CALSTOCK'S new cricket practice facility was officially opened over the weekend after a seven-year struggle to get it built — and was then almost burnt down by some of the village youngsters.

Former community policeman Ernie Reynolds opened the cricket nets and new 'pavilion' in front of dozens of the village's keen cricketers, supporters and local dignitaries on Saturday afternoon. But within 24 hours police were called to the scene after three boys tried to set fire to a bench next to the new building.

Don Mussell, the man behind the project, said: 'I'm extremely annoyed. It's wanton mischief, but the consequences could have been catastrophic. I don't understand them, I really don't.

'The bench was ruined, but if it had really got going the shed would have been in danger,' he said. 'And if it had burnt down, it would have cost £1,500 to replace.'

Sgt Steve Torr said the police treated all incidents of arson very seriously and would be visiting the homes of all three boys, aged between 11 and 14.

The grand opening of the Calstock Community Sports Facility represented the culmination of almost seven years' effort. Mr Mussell and his band of supporters began trying to build the facility on August 19 1993.

He said they had met opposition from some unexpected sources and had had a number of difficulties with planning regulations, but was pleased the day had finally come.

'This is one of the best cricket nets in Cornwall,' he said.

The facility will also serve as a place for the village youngsters to practice their skating and skateboarding, but Mr Mussell asked parents to be supportive.

'It's up to the parents to encourage the children to come down and use it, and to look after it,' he said.

'And to come down and use it with them. It would be great if we could get the mums and dads to come down, especially in weather like this.'

The facility is open every day until sundown. Membership costs £3 a year to cover the £157 a year the organisers need to raise to cover the insurance.

Contact Mr Mussell on 01822 833708 or Krystal James from the youth committee on 01822 832908.