MORE than a century of sporting tradition at Station Road, Berkeley, has come under threat because of a proposed rent increase by Berkeley Town Council.

A proposal to change the way Berkeley Town Football Club and Berkeley Cricket Club pay for use of council-owned facilities has sent shock waves through both clubs.

If the charges are set as they have been drafted, both will find it hard to operate as they do.

It is true the clubs asked the council for a letting agreement in place of the current deal but discussion is needed between all parties to avert a potentially damaging dispute.

The football club and the cricket club are focal points for the town, with many people either playing for, working behind the scenes or supporting the teams.

When opposition teams come to Berkeley to play they bring people who add to the tourist trade by using the shops and pubs.

The council has to take this into account. The clubs to not just turn up and play their matches - they are responsible for more than 1,000 people who visit Berkeley each year.

What the council must be aware of is that, while it has every right to look at ways of raising more money, the town could miss out on getting a great deal of income if the clubs decide the charges are too much and stop playing at Station Road.