REFERENCE the article (Okehampton Times, July 12):-

As the treasurer I attended court as a matter of principle since the payment of rates by Belstone Cricket Club has been an issue ever since we started playing in 1993. Also, other local clubs have challenged the borough's decision to charge.

This summons refers to the year April 2001-2002 ie this season.

We have in the past paid our rates after appealing for relief. This year is no exception, an appeal has been lodged. Last year's bill was not received until February 2001 and was promptly paid. Water rates are paid separately.

The club is not a business and it is not a residence. It receives no service from the borough.

The season started late due to foot and mouth. This resulted in the collection of subscriptions and match fees being delayed thus placing a strain on our cash flow.

Attending court was an eye opener. The summons states: 'To show cause why you have not paid the amount due', yet the court could not allow any statement to be heard. The borough had three representatives in court. Was that really necessary? No wonder rates are so high.

The club is managed by volunteers, they would like to know why it is necessary to go through an annual ritual in order to obtain rate relief. Surely one application should be sufficient or it is in order to keep borough officers employed? Why is it not possible to issue one reduced demand?

Whether the reason is local or national, either authority should be helping sports clubs, particularly those like Belstone Cricket Club who have an excellent youth policy.

As a club we are not asking for handouts but to be left with our self-generated funds. Even if we received the possible 50 per cent reduction we would still be paying in excess of £150. Money which could be spent on grounds maintenance or new equipment.

We understand that the decision to levy this rate is with the local authority. We believe the summons to have been unreasonable and ask all local clubs to lobby their councillors with a view to having this type of rate charge abolished.

R E Norrish

Hon treasurer

Belstone Cricket Club