Bradfield Parish Council Press Release

Bradfield Parish Council is saddened by the recent difficulties in communications with Bradfield Rovers Football Club, a long-standing and valued part of our community that makes an important contribution to grassroots football.

The Council remains committed to working positively with the club and supporting local football. It greatly appreciates the dedication of the club's players, volunteers, and supporters.
As sole trustee of the Bradfield Allotments and Recreation Ground Charity, the Council has a legal duty to ensure that the charity's procedures are followed when agreeing the use of parish facilities. These processes exist to ensure facilities are managed fairly, safely, and sustainably for the benefit of the whole community.

To that end, the charity cannot approve bookings that do not comply with the charity's adopted procedures and must be administered in accordance with its Governing Document and the Charities Act 2011.

The Council, as sole trustee of the charity, notes that other local organisations have completed the required booking documentation for the exclusive use of the recreation ground without issue.

Independent professional advice, provided at no cost to the Council or the Charity, together with guidance from the insurance provider, has confirmed that these administrative processes are an essential part of the Council's responsibilities as sole trustee. They help ensure appropriate governance, risk management, and the safe use of the recreation ground for the benefit of all users.

Bradfield Parish Council hopes that continued open and constructive dialogue will strengthen cooperation and enable a positive way forward for the benefit of the community.