The management of a Kidlington sports ground funded by council tax payers is under review after auditors found "uncertainties" in its accounts.

Parish councillors are concerned that Stratfield Brake recreation ground receives large amounts of public money, but has no manager.

Problems were highlighted when district auditor Judith Tench said there was no system of control to enable her to audit £20,916 of bar takings and £20,581 of expenditure related to labour.

Kidlington parish clerk Patricia Redpath said there was no suggestion of financial malpractice, just that paperwork was lacking.

The £1.8m sports ground, run by a voluntary committee, opened in 1999.

It is home to Gosford All Blacks Rugby Club, Kidlington Cricket Club and Kidlington Running & Athletic Club.

One proposal is for the groups using the ground to hand over the running of the bar and clubhouse to an independent manager.

Christine Witcher, vice-chairman of Kidlington Parish Council, said Cherwell District Council had "walked away" from the project and left the parishes in control of more than they could handle.

But John O'Shea, president of the rugby club and non-voting member of the management committee, said: "User groups can manage it. Otherwise you get too many cooks in the kitchen."

A report commissioned last year by the parishes from Matrix Consultants said better management was needed.

Andrew Moss, chairman of the Stratfield Brake Management Committee and Kidlington parish councillor, agreed inadequate accounts were kept early on but said new systems were now in place.

"We welcome the recommendations from Matrix, and are examining the possibility of a manager," he added.

Chris Rothwell, sports and recreation manager at the district council, ruled out a direct management role, saying it preferred to act as an "enabler" for the parishes with advice and expertise.