The latest person to attack the quality of the Millport astro football pitch repairs has God on his side!

Reverend Jonathan Fleming has added to the growing list of critics about the state of the surface in the Garrison grounds which was recently patched up by North Ayrshire Council.

Rev Fleming told the 'News' that the improvements were 'unacceptable'.

He said: "There is very little in terms of children's facilities on the island as it is.

"It is supposed to be The Year of Young People but it is the kids who have been forgotten about here.

"Children have a right to play football, and you are giving them low quality facilities, it is a justice.

"I know that there are council cuts at the moment, but at the very least, give the children a proper astro football pitch!"

And following criticism from Greenock Morton midfielder Chris Millar, and Largs Thistle legend George Wall, the 'News' can reveal that a Scottish broadcasting personality with connections to Millport is also taking up the mantle.

BBC Radio Scotland football pundit Chick Young has indicated that he would be interested in coming across to take part in a football match to raise the profile of the situation.

After parents and grandparents cried foul last month, a spokesperson for North Ayrshire Council defended the park.

They said: “Like all astroturf repair works of this nature, the surface will benefit from both use and weathering in. The more it’s played on, the better it will get.

“As the repairs are still fresh, having only been carried out last month. However, following an inspection, we are satisfied that the pitch is fully playable.

“We would advise the kids to continue playing on the pitch and hopefully their usage will help resolve any issues they are experiencing.”

But locals insist that the turf they have repaired the holes with is just not suitable, and will take years for it to flatten down to the same level as the original surface.

Pitch photo: Eric Marshall.