Thugs smash up sports pavilion

Apr 13 2007 By Lisa Smith, Birmingham Mail

YOUNG footballers were devastated after callous vandals broke into their sports pavilion and smashed it up as part of a concerted "hate campaign".

Officials at Maypole Juniors FC fear the damage to their Greenaleigh Road clubhouse could run into thousands of pounds.

They also now face the problem of raising up to £3,000 to step up security at the site they share with Maypole United.

And the club, which runs 17 teams for youngsters of all ages, claims the incident is not an isolated one but part of a "campaign of hate" by local youths against the club.

Vice-chairman Lee Barton said players were devastated to find a gang had smashed through security doors and walls and ransacked dressing rooms at their Yardley Wood HQ.

He said: "It is so disheartening to see all the damage. They have literally booted the partition walls in.

"We have had incidents before with lockers being glued shut and dog mess deliberately daubed in the changing rooms but this is the most sickening attempt at I can only describe as a campaign of hate against us.

Fellow club official Clive Hughes said the club, which has a proud history dating back to 1875, would rise again but they would have to review security.

He said: "We are looking at blocking up some external doors and putting in roller shutters but this is going to cost us at least £2,500 to £3,000.

"It is galling when we run teams to keep youngsters off the street and then we are targeted in this way.

"If someone in the area has a problem with us we would rather they come and talk to us than just trash the place."

Police are investigating Tuesday night's break-in and scenes of crimes officers have already taken away forensic evidence taken from footprints at the scene.

Anyone who can help the club in tightening up security is asked to contact Lee Barton on 07974 154991.