tools and equipment, should be returned to the local community.

That argument has been put forward by Loyal Hill residents who want to see the land used for recreation for the area's young people.

And they have won the support of local UPB candidates Mr. Charles Marshall and Dr. James King.

Mrs. Helena Brice and Mr. Keith Simmons told The Royal Gazette that though the field was not managed as well as it might have been before Government started using it, locals were now looking into ways to ensure that it would be put to good use should Government hand the land back.

"It wasn't that well managed,'' admitted Mr. Simmons. "Sessions were held and there were lots of noise complaints with all the bikes and Police.

"But many people are willing to work together because we need a Loyal Hill playground.

"The field is large enough to have minor and mini-minor soccer games. Wolves used to train their softball team on that ground.'' Mrs. Brice, who has been involved with the Devonshire branch of the boys' brigade for the past 30 years, said her organisation was in desperate need of a field for the many sporting competitions held during the year against other brigades.

"Right now we use Old Elliott school field,'' she said, "but it's too small.

"During the summer months we normally have a sports day. But this year we were unable to have one because we were not able to get the field we wanted to use in Paget.'' Referring to Premier Sir John Swan's letter of August 30, which was sent to all residents, Mr. Simmons pointed out a line that stated how important it was to give youth "every possible opportunity to realise their potential''.

"If they are going to be committed to youth like they say they are then there is no reason why we can't have it.

"None of us expect Government to do it all, but we just need their assistance.'' Both UBP candidates in Devonshire North have met with Mr. Simmons about the issue.

When contacted at his home, Mr. Marshall said that he and running mate Dr.

King were familiar with the residents' concerns and had written a letter to Works and Engineering Minister the Hon. Ann Cartwright DeCouto.

"We have found out that Government has no further plans for the site,'' Mr.

Marshall said. "The letter was written early last week. It's looking pretty positive at the moment.

"If we can get the people of the area to be responsible for the ground, Government would certainly do its share to keep the property up.'' COMMUNITY LAND -- Mr. Keith Simmons and Mrs. Helena Brice look out over a small patch of land they want to see turned over to the youth. The land is presently being used by Government as a storage area for the Tynes Bay project.