War is set to break out in Clayton - if it becomes home to the north's first paintball arena.

Enthusiast Darren Lloyd, 25, who travels the country to take part in tournaments, aims to build the centre in Cockin Lane.

Traditionally a woodland game played in camouflage with paintball guns, he plans to build a specialist arena for the modernised version called hyperball.

The sport involves teams in colourful outfits who battle it out in an arena and for the first time making it appealing to spectators.

"I anticipate about 40 people will play each day on a Saturday and Sunday," said Mr Lloyd who works as a joiner.

"Most people will play on Sundays. It's aimed at corporate outings for companies who want to encourage team building and have some fun."

Mr Lloyd has applied to Bradford Council for planning permission to build an arena 60ft by 40ft in a family-owned field.

It would feature giant pipes which, standing on their ends and fixed to the ground, become artificial cover for the players to hide behind. The tallest would rise to a two-metre high maximum. The plan is expected to cost between £8,000 and £10,000.

Onlookers will be able to stand and watch the teams of 15-plus fight to grab their opposing side's flag.

Guns used are no louder than the sound of a clap said Mr Lloyd. The nearest such arena is in Birmingham.

"We have got youth clubs but there are a lot of kids with nothing to do hanging round on street corners," said Mr Lloyd.

His application is likely to be considered in the next few weeks by Bradford Council.

Councillor Gill Whitfield said she had to admire Mr Lloyd's initiative but added: "It seems there will be many planning issues for him. It could create quite a bit of traffic and car parking problems."

She said she would be keen to see further details and receive comments from local residents.

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