Somerset County Cricket Club Chief Executive Peter Anderson, who is never one to fight shy of an issue, has written to all West Country Members of Parliament to draw their attention to the plight of voluntary sports clubs and their need for tax concessions.

In his letter Mr Anderson refers to the Prime Minister's declaration that 2002 be deemed the "Year of the Volunteer", but adds that "volunteers are now undervalued by the Government, which has taken them for granted in implementing their ideals."

Speaking at the County Ground this morning, Mr Anderson told me: "This is a very important issue which needs to be drawn to the attention of the general public who are just not aware of the implications.

"This matter affects all sports clubs that are run by volunteers, not just cricket. All sports clubs have an important role to play in the community, so why can't all sports clubs have mandatory rate and rent relief and preferential tax treatment, because they are non-profit making clubs?

"If this is the Year of the Volunteer, why can't this be recognised by giving them the same concessions and benefits as charities?"

Mr Anderson's letter to local MPs has obviously caused quite a stir judging by the number of replies that he has already received from them, agreeing to look into the matter further on behalf of voluntary sport's clubs.

© SOMERSET