MALDON Rugby Club are enforcing a capping policy on the number of players in their youth section.

The club have become victims of their own success, with more than 300 children currently playing for the Drapers Farm side.

This has led to success at all levels, from the senior teams to their youngest youth teams winning league and cup competitions in the last four years.

However, officials say the club’s resources are being stretched to the limit, because of the large numbers involved in their mini and midi youth sections.

The capping policy will restrict all squads to a maximum of 30 players and should this be reached, additional players wishing to join will be added to a waiting list.

Some mini and midi teams are already above that maximum and, for the time being, they will not be allowed to recruit extra players.

“It is with great regret that we have had to come to this decision,” said chairman Jeremy Wood.

“We now need strong and positive action from the local and district councils to provide facilities for community sports.”

The decision was made at a recent committee meeting.

Maldon have seen their numbers increase to over 330 players, aged between six and 17.

Their youth sections have grown year on year.

However, each Sunday, the limited parking facilities at both Drapers Farm and overflow parking on Scraley Road, adjacent to Heybridge Swifts Football Club, become over-filled and, as a result, parents often park in the neighbouring estates off Lawling and Coopers Avenue.

This has caused friction between the club and local residents and, coupled with the need for changing facilities and after-match meals, has pushed the club’s resources to the limit.

In addition to the club’s popular youth section, Maldon also run three senior men’s teams and, new to this season, a ladies’ touch rugby and girls’ contact rugby teams.

Maldon’s committee have foreseen need for expansion over the last few seasons and made pleas to both the Rugby Football Union (RFU) and Maldon District Council, in addition to writing to John Whittingdale MP.

They have asked for support in funding a proposed expansion of the club’s facilities at Drapers Farm, which is currently shared with Maldon Cricket Club.

However, so far, no progress has been made.