THE retention of Officers Field as a site for a school and sports area has become one of the most popular causes on Portland for many years.

More than 800 people have signed a petition since Town Mayor Tim Munro started the campaign against the site being used for housing development over a year ago.

This number includes signatures he collected from drivers and passengers going on and off the island during his latest collection of names.

Assisted by his escort Patricia Morrell and Couns Ian Price and Elsie Munro-Price, Coun Munro braved the elements to stand by Officers Field.

He said: "We collected dozens of signatures as cars readily stopped for occupants to sign the petition and they waved and tooted horns to show their support.

"The support for retaining the field is huge and in the past year I have only met one person who would not sign - a lady who does not live on Portland and seemed to believe that unless we have more houses the Olympic sailing events would not be held here.

"The campaign will continue until the end of May and a crescendo will be reached on May 4 when a day of action' will be held from 1pm at the Officers Field when all residents are invited to display by sheer force of numbers that the overwhelming Portland view is that no housing development should take place on that site."

Coun Munro added: "This cause is receiving all-round support from people including Stuart Morris who has been protesting about the proposed housing over a considerable period and continues to battle to save the field.

"Chairman Phil Laming and the Portland Community Partnership are against the development and have been lobbying various people and organisations."

Coun Munro has written to a number of people, looking for support in influencing the South West of England Regional Development Agency against the housing development.

He said: "I had very quick responses from Prince Charles and the Princess Royal who wished us success in our undertaking and have received an acknowledgement but as yet no reply from the Prime Minister.

"Disappointingly, Olympic Chief Lord Coe has failed even to acknowledge my letter.

"Nevertheless, I shall continue to bring to the attention of SWERDA that this proposed housing development is a theft of our heritage' and that a complete U-turn by them is the only proper course of action."

Should any bands wish to play or people wish to speak at the event on May 4 then they are invited to contact Coun Munro on 01305 826560.