SPORTS clubs in the Bicester area are being questioned about their needs.

A survey was completed in 2000 by Cherwell District Council and the latest survey is being done by the district council, Bicester Sports Association and Bicester Town Council.

The survey is being carried out because the authorities believe Bicester lacks adequate sports facilities, particularly football pitches, to meet demand.

They want to get an accurate picture of numbers playing sports now, and forecast likely demand up to 2011.

The first part of the exercise will be to compile information such as where football clubs play, the number of members they have and their future plans.

Later a questionnaire will be sent to rugby, cricket and hockey clubs.

Henry Evans, sports association chairman, said: "We're already at full capacity at Chesterton and Oxford Road, Bicester.

"We all agree there is a desperate need for more and better facilities."

The research will be used at the public inquiry into the local plan review next year.

A district council spokesman said all the groups involved needed an up-to-date database.