THE former chief of English rugby is throwing his weight behind a bid to save Ledbury’s playing fields.

Former RFU president Ian Beer has lined up a major role with the Ledbury and District Sports Federation.

Members hope Mr Beer’s extensive contacts will boost their campaign to improve sporting facilities in the town.

The group’s new president has already made a big impact by getting a letter of support from his friend, Lord Coe.

Mr Beer was persuaded to stand by former councillor Don Rule, brainchild of the bid to protect Ledbury’s open spaces.

One of the group’s biggest aims is to transfer ownership of the football and cricket pitches from private to public hands.

Mr Beer was RFU president in 1993 and was tipped become chairman of the Sports Council in the same decade.

He said he was honoured to be president but stressed that chairman, Councillor Robert Barnes, was more important.

“I will do all I can to help in trying to identity where the facilities should be and how it can be done,” said Mr Beer.

“It’s a serious task in terms of facilities and activities because although a lot is being done there isn’t enough room.

“There’s also a lot to do for the future. We will get our houses and lovely shops but we will also need room for sport.”

Coun Barnes said the group was hopeful for the future and also outlined plans to get Ledbury an athletics track.

Members held their first committee meeting last week at the football club and are preparing a constitution.

Councillors Paul Winter and Rob Yeoman have been appointed vicechairman and secretary, respectively, while deputy town clerk Diane Baldwin is treasurer.