SIR — Re Mr Bircham's letter (Free Press July 21), we are more than aware of the state of the pavilion at the Dulverton Sportsfield.

That is the reason why myself, John Snell and Jim Wensley, with the help of others, have been working on this project for the last seven years.

We have submitted our second application for funding from the lottery, having been turned down on the first bid.

To make this bid we had to raise over £30,000 as part funding. Without help from West Somerset District Council's pledge of £5,000 and a pledge of £5,500 from Dulverton Town Council, this would not have been possible.

Also the town council has helped with the necessary planning applications etc.

As well as supporting this project, the town council is still paying off the loan taken out to purchase the field in the late 1940s. They also make a grant of £1,100 plus each year to help maintain the field.

As we all know, the council has limited funds and we are most grateful for their help.

In hindsight, perhaps it is a pity that clubs and players over the past 60 years did not set up some sort of trust that would have prevented this problem arising with the pavilion.

Bernard How,

Chairman,

Sportsfield Management Committee,

Dulverton.