A PITCH battle has kicked off in Millport about the poor state of one of the few outdoor sporting facilities on the isle.

Complaints have been raised about the worn out surface of the community astroturf football pitch.

Parents and grandparents have raised the matter with Cumbrae Community Council after 'holes' appeared in the astroturf.

Wear and tear of the pitch in the Garrison grounds has caused rips in the surface.

Island correspondent Mary Currie said: "Youngsters in Millport have sent a letter to the community council with almost 80 signatures asking them for help with the astroturf.

"It is no longer fit for purpose, and the only facility for them.

"It is much used by the primary school, and children in general.

"We hope that the community council can lobby the council to sort this much needed facility."

Michael Bertram, chief executive of Cumbrae Community Development Company, says the pitch is the responsibility of the local authority.

A North Ayrshire Council spokesperson said they were not aware of any problems with the surface.

A spokesperson added: “However, following this inquiry, we will visit the site to access it and liaise with the landlords, Cumbrae Community Development Trust, on any works that are required.”

The new all-weather pitch was laid in 2009 at a cost of £175,000 and it was funded by North Ayrshire Council.

The only other park is the grass football pitch near West Bay.

The possibility of an outdoor gym was also raised during the recent Cumbrae Community Council meeting, with volunteers keen to look at bringing outdoor exercise equipment to the island.