UNDER-fire sports facilities in Petersfield have been defended and called "the best in Hampshire".
At Petersfield Town Council's annual general meeting Andy Owen from the Petersfield Hockey Club said it was time for the council to start backing local sports clubs and organisations.
But the youth chairman of Petersfield Rugby Football Club, Steve Downes, has supported the town's facilities and says they are the envy of other clubs.
He said: "Petersfield Town Council has come in for some unfair criticism regarding its support for local sports clubs.
"The facilities at Penns Place are regarded as some of the best in Hampshire. Well-known clubs such as Richmond RFC have been envious of the facilities at Petersfield.
"The Hampshire RFU county tournament was held in Petersfield in March and was a great success, bringing credit to the town."
At the annual general meeting councillors were also criticised for failing to provide an astro turf pitch.
Andy Owen pointed out that astro turf pitches had successfully been installed at Bedales, Bohunt and in Bordon.
George Watkinson told the meeting that investigations into local sites had revealed that the soil was not suitable.
But Mr Downes says the best way to get an astro turf pitch in Petersfield is for local clubs to work together.
He said: "Obtaining funds from the local authorities is in many cases a last resort for sports clubs.
"The way forward has to be one of partnership, where several organisations would be prepared to contribute a significant amount of funding towards any large development such as an astro turf pitch.
"Only when this commitment has been made can support be expected from local authorities, governing bodies and charities such as the Hampshire Playing Fields Association."
He added: "I am sure that the sports clubs of Petersfield would receive a sympathetic hearing if a co-ordinated approach were taken.
"East Hampshire District Council is already taking a positive approach to many sports in its 'come and try' session for the Hampshire Youth Games.
"Hampshire County Council also appears to recognise the benefit of sport in the community.
"The town council, through its maintenance of its pitches, is also making a worthy contribution."