Row over claims of police 'ban' on kids playing street football

'WE JUST WANT THEM TO SHOW CONSIDERATION' SAYS FORCE DISPUTING COMMENTS

- By LOUIS CORBETT

RESIDENTS were shocked when they opened their doors to find police handing out letters allegedly banning their children from playing football in the street.

The letters said street football was “causing mental health issues” in Sneinton.

After complaints over the summer holidays, Nottinghamshire Police issued the letter to residents in Hol-born Avenue in late August, explaining that the children who had been playing on the street daily were being advised to move on because they were causing a “decline in people’s quality of life.”

The letter said: “Whilst we understand that children wish to play ball games, it can cause mental health issues, damage to property and a decline in people’s quality of life.

“If your children are involved, I would kindly advise you to remind them of the above and direct them to a local park away from any residential areas.”

While some residents were angered by the letter, others said it was needed after months of alleged abuse from the young children.

The Post spoke to residents, some of them parents, on the street who wanted to share their views.