YELLOW ribbons might signal the sell-off blues for family silver traders in a village green fight.

Sunday's peaceful protest aims to block plans to build on the Wesley Guild field at Pennington, Leigh.

And Wigan Council - which wants to dispose of the Beech Walk land now it is no longer zoned for a new school - is treading virgin territory.

On Tuesday it set-up a five-man team to determine demands to give the field village green status.

In March, Beech Crescent resident Stephen Sargent applied to the Council to have the field registered as a town or village green.

Long years of community use are reasons behind the claim.

Borough solicitor Susan Lowe says: "As far as I am aware this Council has not previously considered such an application.

"My view is a five member sub-committee including a chairperson would be suitable.

"The applicant raised the question as to whether council members can give an independent decision on this matter.

"However the determination of the application would be on the basis of questions of fact. I am satisfied members of the public protection committee could deal with the matter and maintain independence.

"I would say members who have had direct involvement with decisions regarding this land may not feel it appropriate to be members of the sub-committe determining the application."

Sunday's people's protest starts at 3pm. Save Our Village Green organiser Julie Maddrell urges anyone interested in keeping the Wesley Guild site an open space to join in.

She said: "Bring your kids, your dog, a brass band, your picnics and a yellow ribbon to show we will not be held hostage."

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