QUESTIONS have been raised about the delay in replacing a vital sports facility, that was torched by arsonists, despite insurance pay outs earlier this year.

Bennett's Recreation Ground, in Padgate, was eventually demolished after a devastating fire on October 8, 2002, which destroyed changing facilities, function rooms and memorabilia from three decades of Warrington sport.

Brothers Richard Currie, aged 32, and David Currie, aged 29, of Rudlow Court, Padgate were sentenced to two years imprisonment in May 2003 for arson causing damage to the value of £344,000.

Because of the fire numerous rugby and football teams including junior sides like Woolston Rovers were left without a home.

And now parents of junior players are demanding to know why, 19 months after the fire, the facilities have not been replaced.

Chris Dean, whose son plays for Woolston Rovers Football Club under-11s side, said: "The parish council has been paid the insurance money but no work has been started.

"We've lost five teams in the past 18 months because we don't have the facilities. In the same amount of time they've managed to grow a new pitch at the new Wolves' stadium."

"It's an absolute disgrace that in a town with such a rich sporting heritage, around 70 kids can no longer play rugby because of the lack of facilities.

"There has been no communication. No-one knows what's going on. We've been given dates for work to start but when we contacted the council we were told that building regulations haven't even been applied for."

But a member of the parish council, said: "Everything is on track but there have been some unexpected hold-ups. The recreation ground will be brought right up to date with changing rooms and showers for both players and officials, a small kitchen, lockable storage space and modern security systems. Although we have no date at present we are hoping that work will be starting soon.

"All meetings of the parish council are open to the public and anyone is welcome to attend."