Parents have launched a "scrap the tax" campaign after a cricket club which helps scores of youngsters was hit by a £1,125 rate demand.

Brighton and Hove Cricket Club was stunned when the bill for business rates arrived at its headquarters at the Nevill Sports Ground, in Eridge Road, Hove.

It was sent by Brighton and Hove City Council, which last year waived a similar charge after acknowledging the important role the club plays in the community.

Now parents are lobbying the council and Hove MP Ivor Caplin in a bid to hit the demand for six.

Annette Woolman, of Langdale Gardens, Hove, said: "I have two sons registered in the junior section of the club who both started last year as beginners. I was delighted to find a local club with so much to offer and with such reasonable yearly subscriptions.

"My sons attend different local state schools, neither of which provides proper cricket facilities. The club is therefore offering the local community an important service.

"As a parent, I am increasingly concerned about occupying my children's leisure time in a useful and enjoyable fashion.

"In our quest to keep our children off the streets and out of harm's way, few activities fit the bill as well as Brighton and Hove Cricket Club, where the boys are taught our traditional sport in a caring and professional manner.

"If subscriptions increase, which will undoubtedly arise from an increase in rates, the children will suffer."

In a letter to Minister for Sport Kate Hoey MP, Keith Pitt, of Pipers Close, Hove, stated: "The club is not rich and the business rate charge must come as a severe financial blow."

Mr Caplin said: "We had the same discussion in 1997 and 1998 and the council decided the club shouldn't have to pay any business rates because of the role it plays in the community, providing cricket for the city's boys and girls.

"Nothing in my view has changed and therefore the club shouldn't have to pay."

A council spokesman said: "No decision has been made yet. We shall be replying to the club after Easter."