Paul Williams of Mayflower RHC contacted the NRHA on 18th March asking for help. “We have been kicked out of our centre, with no notice whatsoever” said Paul.

The Estover Centre in Plymouth was once a wholly owned facility by Plymouth Council, but has recently been transferred to the Local Education Authority.

A Flooring Contractor used recently by the centre has advised that Roller Skates can damage the floor, due to grit being brough in from outside, and that “other centres have kicked out Roller hockey clubs”. The NRHA strongly refute this claim, and suggest this is an error on the part of the contractor.

Competitions Director Tony Czifra, suggested some immediate actions that Mayflower should take to try to address this unfortunate issue, and was contacted on March 22nd by Louise Oates (Head of Leisure Amenities Dept, Plymouth Council). Louise was sympathetic, and has promised to speak with the centre to investigate the issue.

Louise, who 5 years ago was actually the Manager of this centre, is fully aware of the floor capabilities, and the wide range of potential things that could be attribued to floor damage apart from Roller Hockey (ie, Badminton Posts moved by schoolchildren, wheelchair basketball, etc, as well as everyday wear-and-tear).

Tony Czifra advised Mayflower to at first do all they can to discuss the issue with the centre, but should ultimately be prepared to take it further, ie, The Local Media, Local Councillors, Local MP’s.

“For a local Leisure Centre holding a responsibility to provide facilities for the local community, then to remove these due to unfounded claims, is unacceptable” said Tony Czifra. “The Local Government are responsible here in putting sport focused kids back on the streets. We WILL NOT accept that” he concluded.

If any other clubs are having similar difficulties, and would like help or advice on how to handle them, please let the NRHA know : competitions@nrha.co.uk

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Reporter: Tony Czifra