Residents have launched a campaign to open up a council-owned playing field in Tooting which is only available to those who can pay.

Led by Sadiq Khan, who has been Tooting’s MP since 2005, they have demanded the council make Fishponds Playing Fields in Hebdon Road free to the public.

The 10 acre green field is currently only accessible to schools, football clubs and other sports organisations on a fee-paying basis.

Local mum and child minder Lea Tatham said: "The kids are not always safe or welcome to play out in the busy streets, so currently we have to walk about 30 minutes away, crossing busy main roads with toddlers in tow to reach the park or the common.

“It's so frustrating when only 10 minutes away there's a big playing field sitting empty most of the time, but which the public is banned from using by the council."

Campaigners say the field should be opened to the public during school holidays, summer evenings and weekends to encourage youngsters to engage in sports.

More than 100 people have signed a petition, organised by Tooting’s Labour candidates for the local election.

Mr Khan said: "Local people have a right to expect some public space to be available, free of charge, for their kids to play in.

“This is another example of Wandsworth Council treating the provision of a basic public service as a money-making opportunity - in this case the chance for our children to have a bit of space to play a bit of football or run about in.

“This is publicly owned land, which should be available to the public free of charge when it isn't in use by schools and organised clubs."

A council spokesman said: "These are playing fields which are extremely well used by local schools, sports clubs and other community groups.

"It is a secure site with only one entrance and bordered on three sides by back gardens of houses.

"Any proposal to change the way the playing fields are used would have implications for both sports club users and the residents of these houses who would have concerns about security.

"The council does recognise the importance of safe local play space and is currently working with parents in the area to create a brand new open access playground here, including a grassed area, where local youngsters can play in a safe and controlled setting."