SPORTS clubs and organisations in Blaenau Gwent are to be banned from hiring facilities at local authority leisure centres and sports grounds - if they do not adopt a child protection policy.

Blaenau Gwent council's executive meeting heard on Wednesday that 22 clubs have either already adopted a policy, or are in the process of doing so.

But 99 clubs or organisations have not yet informed the authority of any child protection procedures - including 33 football clubs, 26 sports-centre based clubs, 17 rugby clubs and 11 cricket clubs - despite being asked to do so a year ago.

Those clubs now have a deadline of January 1, 2003 to prepare a policy or the use of the authority's facilities, both indoor and outdoor, will be withdrawn from them.

Councillor Nigel Daniels, executive member for leisure services, said the numbers were disappointing as it left 99 clubs who were not indicating to the council that they were considering adopting any policy.

"Those who do not comply will have all facilities withdrawn from their use. This policy will be implemented," he said.

"Child protection is one of our greatest concerns. This policy is the exemplar that we expect our facility users to follow.

"We realise that there is no legal requirement to have child protection policies but in the interest of protection we have agreed that those who deliver activities for children or the vulnerable must have formal procedures and undertaken relevant training to safeguard customers and employees."

And Councillor Brian Scully, executive member for social services, also voiced his support for the decision.

"Every parent and guardian will be very grateful for this," he said. The council incorporated their child protection policy into the 'conditions of hire' agreement for sports facilities to protect children and vulnerable people and also coaches and personnel of sporting organisations using council facilities - including swimming pools, sports pitches, pavilions and sports halls.

The authority's sport and recreation division is actively encouraging organisations to implement child protection policies.

For more information, contact Karl Hale, sports development officer, on 01495 355322.