Christian footballers fall foul of residents over a '˜prison' fence in Milton Keynes

A football club professing to be chaired by Jesus Christ has prompted an unholy row by erecting an '˜illegal' fence.

Some residents took instant of-fence when Christian club CleanSlate put up the high metal structure around Downs Barn pavilion.

They say it is unsightly, prison-like and also claim it is illegal because it is 10cm over the maximum height that can be built without planning permission.

The club says the fence is designed to protect their “huge” investment into the community and also stop dogs fouling on the football pitch.

But one wag on the protestors’ Facebook page Offensive Fence, said: “Does anyone know a dog who can clear a fence that high? If so, they should be in Britain’s Got Talent.”

Others complain there was no consultation with residents prior to the fence erection, and are asking the council to get it removed.

The semi-professional CleanSlate FC, which states on its website that its chairman is Jesus Christ, leases the pavilion from MK Council.

It offers free football and sports facilities to underprivileged youngsters.

A council spokesman said the club provided a “valuable” service, and officers are working to ensure an appropriate solution that conforms to planning regulations.

CleanSlate FC said: “The purpose of the fence is to protect the pitch from the constant vandalism, overuse and dog fouling we have experienced there.

“We have healthy ambitions to improve the facility to allow our many teams to progress, but this is not possible unless the pitch can be properly maintained and protected.

“We are keen to continue to work with local residents and authorities so we can together provide quality community football.”

The controversial fence is alleged to have cost CleanSlate £10,000 to erect around the pavilion, Downs Barn residents conducted a survey to gather views on the “prison” fence - 89 per cent of people wanted it removed.