Birmingham school launches GoFundMe appeal after travellers 'damage' playing field

A school has launched a GoFundMe appeal after travellers allegedly caused thousands of pounds worth of damage to a playing field. Around 40 caravans pitched up on training ground used by Bartley Reds FC, Bellfield Junior School and other groups in Northfield on Thursday evening, June 27.

They were served an eviction notice and left on Sunday. Extensive damage was then discovered to the field, storage containers, fencing and the toilets and changing rooms.

West Midlands Police was informed and reportedly visited the field on Monday. Nigel Attwood, the head of Bellfield Juniors, said the incident has left them "gutted" as the grounds are used by more than 1,000 local children all year round.

Read More: Dozens of caravans pitch up on popular city playing fields

He has launched a GoFundMe appeal to raise £5,000 to restore the electrics and fire safety in the building, replace two damaged containers, repair fencing and clean-up the field. So far, around £2,415 has been donated.

Mr Attwood said the general annual upkeep of the field is around £10,000 paid through the football club, fundraising and school premiums. He said: "We were gutted because we put a lot of time and money into the field. We had to apply for grants and funding to get the field up to standard.

"We put a car park in there so we wouldn't affect local residents and the roads. We can't get insurance because it is a stand alone building in a field.

"The council sent out a cleaning team and we've had volunteer groups too doing a clean up. A company said they would fix the fire and security system."

He added in the appeal: "Please do support us financially here or if you can offer support, time and expertise in any of these areas! Thank you so much."

To Donate To The GoFundMe Click Here

A resident who watched the fleet arrive on Thursday night, and did not want to be named, said: "They moved in last night, a lot of cars, caravans, vans...and arrived in convoy one after the other.

"They are now parked spread about all over the sports fields, these get used for training in the week and matches and training at weekends. Kids are going to be disappointed." West Midlands Police has been contacted for comment.