Istead and Ifield Harriers Club president Bob Carter claims the lack of facilities in Gravesham is driving tomorrow’s track and field stars away from the borough.

He said: "It seems if there is not a ball involved it’s not considered sport in the borough."

Mr Carter said that adding to the problem was the possibility that the track at nearby Deangate Ridge may be closed when a new facility in Gillingham opens.

"I’m afraid we’re allowing 11-to-15-year-olds to slip through our fingers because of a lack of facilities in Gravesham. They are going elsewhere," he said.

"Should Deangate cease to operate, it would create a big problem."

Mr Carter added that two years ago, Istead and Ifield were willing to contribute toward the cost of a grass track at the Cascades Leisure site.

This was rejected because it would have interfered with football pitches.

He said: "Building new tracks is an expensive business, we’re talking in the region of £400,000. But money can be found for other sports, so why not athletics?

"Following the promotion of our men’s team, we are the only club that does not have a track and athletics facilities in the league.

"Gravesend has no athletics structure, despite interest being created by the 2012 Olympics.

"Because we are a minor club we are paired with the bigger Dartford, Erith and Bexley athletics clubs and get to use their facilities. But that could en