By JANE FIELD

MEMBERS of Fidlers Ferry Sailing Club have expressed their concern about the "drastic effects" which the proposed Arpley tip extension could have on the environment.

Not only would the height of the proposed extension affect the wind factor for sailors on the River Mersey, the filth and pollution would make the water unsafe, they say.

"This tip is a timebomb waiting to happen," said club volunteer Sue Cartwright. "It could crucify our club."

The club also fears that the continuous flooding problems the River Mersey suffers every month especially during spring high tides could mean the leaching of pollutants into the water.

The extension would be on agricultural land which has always been classed as a flood plain shown on Ordnance Survey maps since 1905 and has many watercourses, including an old canal, which connect directly to the river.

Members of the sailing club one of the oldest in Britain say they have often seen this area, which they class as a safety valve, being covered during high tides.

"In the event of this land being used as a tip it would remove this safety valve," said honorary secretary Jack Cox.

"The excess water would still be present during flood conditions and cannot be ignored. It would not simply go away and be ignored, it would cause far more serious flooding elsewhere."

The club is inviting those making decisions regarding the tip to visit them at the bar of the Ferry pub and see photographs showing just how seriously the flooding should be taken and where the river runs during a high tide.

"Perhaps this will help them to understand why the river needs its safety valves in the way of flood plains," added Mr Cox.

On Sunday, April 7, there will be one of the highest tides of the year, with the water expected to reach up to 20 feet.