IN answer to Mr Hanson's letter ('Football pitch a quagmire', November 17)) questioning the purpose of the Edenfield Village Residents' Association, as the current chairman and an active member since 1977, I can assure your readers that the association has done a great deal of good in Edenfield and the wider community over that period.

It is surprising that Mr Hanson is not aware of this since we put a newsletter through his letterbox twice a year to tell him exactly what we are doing; the latest just a month ago.

I can further assure readers that the association has not caused the deterioration of the recreation ground.

This is due to poor drainage, which Rossendale BC will vouch for. For the past 29 years, we have staged each year, a village fete, a bonfire and firework display, a senior citizens' concert and carols in the churchyard with brass band.

These have been successful, well-attended and well-appreciated by the residents of Edenfield and others from near and far. What else do we do? Well, last year we paid for the metal railings around a children's playground, among other things.

This year, we have paid for two benches for the memorial garden. Every year we donate to local good causes. All the time we monitor planning applications and the state of Edenfield's roads, taking action when necessary and having regular meetings with the quarry operators.

Tell me Mr Hanson, what have you done for Edenfield in the past 29 years? It takes more than writing ill-informed letters to get things done.

You will be pleased to hear that you can stay in your chair. The association is currently working to get grant status for the Recreation Ground.

You would be welcome to come and join us. Our next meeting is at Edenfield Cricket Club at 8 pm on Wednesday, January 18.

TONY GRAHAM

Chairman, Edenfield Village

Residents' Association