"WE want our community centre!"

That was the message that about 40 Skelmanthorpe people had for a property developer they say has betrayed them.

A placard-bearing crowd gathered on a housing development on Station Road in the village on Saturday morning.

Protesters say developer Brian Dunford, of Flockton, broke his promise about giving the village a sports centre after he bought some land in Skelmanthorpe.

In 2001 a local group, Parkgate Sports and Community Trust, sold Mr Dunford the land on a `gentleman's agreement' that a community centre would be built.

But after Kirklees Council gave planning permission for the site the plug was pulled on plans for the proposed centre.

Mr Dunford subsequently sold the land for more than £1m.

Kirklees councillor Jim Dodds, whose Denby Dale ward includes Skelmanthorpe, said tensions still ran high in the village.

He added: "This demonstration is taking place to show that we haven't forgotten Mr Dunford reneged on the agreement.

"People in this village feel betrayed about what has happened.

"When you walk round the village people stop you to talk about it.

"The community centre project means a great deal to everyone.

"It would not just have been a sports centre but also a place that everyone, from toddlers to pensioners, could have used."

Clr Dodds said the issue was far from over, adding: "We intend to pursue this matter as far as we can.

"The people of Skelmanthorpe will not let this happen to their community."

Mr Dunford, former owner of Woolley Commercial Properties, has previously been asked to speak on the issue by the Examiner. His only reponse has been: "No comment."