ALLOTMENT holders stormed out of a meeting with Calne Town Council after they were told they will be without plots for up to five months.

The council called the special meeting, attended by more than 30 allotment holders, on Tuesday.

The council is selling the allotments land at Newcroft for housing to raise money to buy playing fields.

Although applications for four new sites have been approved in principle, there are still problems, including access, to be sorted out and the land is not expected to be ready until September.

Holders, who have been given until April 6 to quit their land, claim they were promised they would not have to leave if alternative sites weren't available.

Calne Allotment Society secretary Sue Taylor said: "Members stormed out because we were told we would have to leave Newcroft on April 6 although no alternative sites would be available."

Town councillor Derek Quinn said: "It is unfortunate for them although there was no malice aforethought against them. At the end of the day the 30 acres of playing fields will be for the greater interest of the greater community."