THE leader of the Tories in the Assembly is backing a drive to establish a network of Queen Elizabeth II Fields in Wales.

The Fields in Trust organisation is hoping community playing fields will be given the new title to mark the Queen's Diamond Jubilee in 2012.

The sites would have special protection and be run for the public.

A similar drive during the 1930s and 1940s saw hundreds of King George V Playing Fields established across the UK, including sites in Sketty, Swansea, and Pontardawe.

AM Nick Bourne said: "I very much welcome news of this initiative and call on all communities and local authorities in Wales to play their part in making a success of this scheme.

"This initiative presents important opportunities to extend and protect playing fields in our communities."