Groundsman Paul Franklin, Bels president Hilary Sarre and farmers Robin and Jim Jamouneau discuss repair options for Victoria Avenue. Below, former Culture and Leisure minister Peter Sirett, whose concerns for the surface have been realised. (Main picture by Daniel Guerin, 0594078)

PETER SIRETT’S worst fears have been realised. The former Culture and Leisure minister was worried that Guernsey Live would damage the surface at Victoria Avenue.

He was branded a killjoy for trying to prevent it being used as he wanted the area to be kept for sport. But vehicles used to transport equipment have created ruts that have made it too dangerous for footballers to play on.

‘This is exactly what I said it would be like,’ said Deputy Sirett, who is now Environment minister. ‘It’s all very well people shouting and yelling that they want an event, but they should listen to what people who know what they are talking about are saying. I know insurance was in place and I know the situation is being rectified. It’s just a matter of time.’

Belgrave Wanderers groundsman Paul  Franklin said that it had been six weeks since Guernsey Live but the talking had just started when work could have been under way. ‘They have talked about coming back next year. It wouldn’t put me off letting them back if we worked together and did it properly.’