Enforcement action has been taken against a sports club over gates erected without planning permission more than two years ago.

Buckhurst Hill Football Club has been given six weeks to either remove the 7ft gates, or appeal against the decision.

The club has been at loggerheads with members of the community since 2011, over what residents describe as ‘prison gates’.

Staff and volunteers at the club insist that the gates are vital for the safety of the many children which they coach.

They have been given until June 5 to make a decision.