Sir - Because of the city council's policy of 'offloading' sports facilities to private management, it seems that access to the Alexandra tennis courts in Summertown will be denied not only to Norham Gardens tennis club (Report, December 1), but, more importantly, to any regular, aspiring or future tennis players who want to just turn up and play.

Very many children, youngsters, families, adults and seniors play all year round on these public courts, enjoying and benefiting from the exercise and fresh air.

Local dog-walkers also enjoy the pleasant surroundings. An 'elite' sport? Only if access to courts is confined to those who pay large membership fees.

Are local people aware that this important facility for young and old is to be snatched away at this particular time of anxiety over bored and overweight children, and that any private facility will inevitably involve building on the site (club house, indoor courts)?

Does not the city council have a responsibility to retain open spaces and provide facilities for the health and well-being of all its ratepayers and their families?

Jean Phillips (Mrs), Oxford