Albion Rovers left 'totally dismayed' after stadium targeted by 'malicious' vandals

Albion Rovers FC have been left in total 'dismay' after their stadium was targeted by 'malicious' vandals.

On the evening of Sunday, April 14, the grounds at Reigart Stadium in Coatbridge were broken into and vandalised by cruel thugs.

In a statement, the club said cupboards were "burst open", advertising boards were "ripped off" and their tunnel hood was "smashed up", among further damage. As well, sadly the club's Garden of Remembrance was heartlessly targeted.

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The team have now set up a JustGiving page in a bid to raise money for security updates at Cliftonhill.

The club's statement, issued the following morning on April 15, reads: "We are totally dismayed at the acts of malicious vandalism that took place at The Reigart Stadium last night.

"The paint cupboard was burst open, advertising boards ripped off and the tunnel hood was smashed up among other bits and pieces.

"Our Garden of Remembrance was also sadly targeted.

"If anyone has any information as to the identity of those responsible please notify Police Scotland and or contact the club.

"We are sure all right minded people in the town will be disgusted by the actions of these individuals, and it is our hope that in the fullness of time we can open to the community without fear of vandalism.

"It feels like we are trying to fight a losing battle. The club has been put into a difficult position and we are now being forced to further review our security at the ground.

"This will incur a cost that the club can ill afford.

"Albion Rovers are a community club open to all. We have had supporters feel unsafe at our matches in recent times and this is simply not on.

"The recent rise in antisocial behaviour at lower league football matches is not exclusive to ARFC and we share our frustration with our fellow clubs who have been affected by similar situations.

"We look forward to welcoming our supporters back to Cliftonhill tomorrow night for our Park’s Motor Group Lowland League match against champions East Kilbride.

"We’d like to thank everyone who has helped prepare the ground."

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: "Around 7pm on Sunday, 14 April, 2024 we received a report of a vandalism to sports premises in Main Street, Coatbridge.

"Enquiries are ongoing."

To donate to the JustGiving page, click here.

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