Yobs wreck changing rooms

11:25am Friday 28th September 2007

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WHEN vandals broke in and destroyed the changing rooms at a rugby club, they devastated not only the facilities but also the hopes of more than 200 players.

Washbasins were smashed, windows broken, the roof pulled down and electricity cables torn from walls in the attack at Warminster Rugby Club's ground in Folly Lane.

The club's chairman, Chris Bell, of Sambourne Road, is outraged at what he describes as 'evil vandalism' and angry that the club will have to use its funds to have the facilities replaced.

Mr Bell said: "It is absolutely dreadful. The players were in despair when they saw what had happened because it means that we can't use them for matches and we still have a full fixture list to play.

"We are going to have problems finding another venue. We are now looking to get a permanent building up there as soon as possible."

The ground is used by the club's senior team and various youth teams.

Mr Bell said: "They have damaged everything from the walls to the electricity and lighting. It is just pure evil vandalism."

The attack on the changing rooms took place some time between September 16 and September 20 and police are appealing for any witnesses to come forward.

Acting Sergeant Dave Mills, of Warminster police, said: "I am appalled at this sort of mindless vandalism.

"Things like this are completely anti-social and detrimental to the wellbeing of the community.

"There are now hundreds of kids who can't train and it will take a lot of money to sort it out, which is something the club could probably do without."

Players young and old will continue to use the pitch, which is leased to them by West Wiltshire District Council, for training, but will have to rent ground space from the army at the Land Warfare Centre in Imber Road to play matches, so the home and visiting teams can change and socialise.

Mr Bell alerted councillors to the incident at the weekend and after seeing the extent of the damage are now liaising with the district council to seek funding for a permanent community facility to be built.

Town councillor Pip Ridout said: "We went up there with a camera at the weekend and there wasn't a bit of porcelain left that was bigger then four inches. It is absolutely awful.

"The roof has been ripped down, every single wash basin smashed and the floor is just covered with porcelain. It is a complete and utter mess; it's totally destroyed.

Cllr Bill Parks was equally disgusted.

He said: "These facilities are vital to many youngsters who play rugby and no longer have basic changing facilities. Their enjoyment of these outdoor activities will be devastated.

"The mindless vandalism and destruction will have a lasting effect on the club and is soul-destroying for the parents, supporters and other schools and clubs."