A WINCHESTER teenager may have to stop her hobby because of council red tape.

Winchester City Council say they will remove a trampoline used by children in Pound Road, Kings Worthy as it poses a safety risk and there is not enough space.

This is despite its use by keen trampolinist Josie Dale and other families who use the trampoline on the council-owned communal area.

In letters sent to residents, the council says the trampoline, which has been there for six years has attracted complaints and is a safety risk.

Josie, 13, a pupil at Henry Beaufort School and a member of Winchester Gymnastics Club, has been doing gymnastics since the age of three.

She and other youngsters using the trampoline which was brought by Sharon Dale were told in letters by council officials that health and safety issues include unauthorised use and dangerous wear and tear and possible misuse.

The council also said their maintenance team are unable to get to the grass under the trampoline.

However Josie and other users offered the council several solutions, including putting a padlock on the zip to prevent others from using it, always having an adult around, and working together on grass maintenance.

Her mother Sharon said: “I will have to stop her taking part in competitions if she can’t use it, I am creating a safe environment for her to exercise, and you get told you can’t do this, it is just ridiculous.”

Josie said: “I would be really upset if I can’t use it because it is a big part of my life and without it I won’t be able to do gym. We have made arrangements on how to keep it safe and I don’t see why there is a problem really.”

County councillor Jackie Porter is calling for the council to have a rethink. She said: “The trampoline has been there for six years and Josie’s parents have taken all due safety measures, personally I think all reasonable care has been taken to make it safe.

“A lot of children need access to gardens and play space and a here the girl is a keen trampolinist and without the trampoline being there, it is going to make her mum’s job of keeping her interested in trampolining at a disadvantage.”

A city council spokesman said: “The letters sent to residents explain the reasons clearly. Officers have been in contact with Cllr Porter recently about this issue and she is aware of the council’s reasons.”