Uppies and Downies is a well respected tradition

Last updated 21:24, Thursday, 27 March 2008

I MUST respond to the letter from Robert Coon (Times & Star, March 21) about Uppies and Downies.

My family have been involved with the historic game since records began and indeed we continue to supply the Easter Tuesday ball that my son throws off to start the game.

I consider myself, having had years of experience both as a sponsor and a player, to be suitably qualified to comment.

I take exception that Mr Coon regards the game as public disorder on a large scale.

I am a responsible, law abiding citizen, I have a professional occupation, and object that Mr Coon can accuse me (and many of my friends) of being law breakers, or supporting public disorder.

It is clear that he has not taken part in a game, let alone actually witnessed a game as an observer.

Mr Coon comments about a game where a player 'kicked a ball;' sorry Mr Coon, but the ball cannot be easily kicked.

Furthermore, if Mr Coon is aware of any players that use the game to settle old scores as he claims, then he should supply names to the relevant authorities.

If not, he is also aware that he should not make sweeping, unfounded, allegations that cannot be proved.

By tarring everyone with this brush, he is accusing all the players past, present, young and old, of a crime.

Mr Coon comments about reports in the local press being detrimental with regard to the behaviour of the players.

A group of players, Joe Clark and Joe Sandwith amongst them, have raised thousands of pounds for charities yet he makes no mention of this achievement.

Let's face it, if people didn't support the game (for that is what it is, a game) they would not support the fund raising around the game.

He makes no mention of the good reports in the media.

I well remember that his business sold fireworks. Some people throw fireworks, so does this mean that no one should sell fireworks because the actions of a minority can be bad as he puts it, and the law is in need of review?

We have recently witnessed many attempts to curtail our game, our tradition, and our heritage.

Far from being public disorder, it is a well respected tradition that requires only a small police presence.

It should not be pilloried; it should be praised for its longevity, its sport, its competitive spirit and its presence as part of the character and history of my home town, Workington.

Like many Workingtonians, I am proud of it, and long may the game continue.

BOB DAGLISH

Pasture Road

Rowrah