Police investigating vandalism of the pitch at Kelty Hearts' stadium in midweek

Police have confirmed they are investigating a report of vandalism of the pitch at New Central Park, the home of Kelty Hearts, on Wednesday.

The club say local youths have been found to be burning parts of the artificial playing surface, with repairs expecte to cost a "considerable sum" of money.

Inquiries are ongoing by officers, but the League One club is appealing for information about the damage.

A statement on the website of Kelty Hearts reads: "It is with sincere disappointment that New Central Park has once again become subject of severe vandalism.

"Rather disturbingly, local youths have been found to be burning parts of the artificial playing surface, which to repair will involve remedial works costing a considerable sum.

"Club buildings have also been subjected to anti social behaviour with youths spotted climbing on building roofs, damage within the seated stand and enclosures as well as repeated damage to the perimeter fencing.

"Recently the pie huts have also been targeted, with one being ransacked, again causing losses to stock and damage to equipment.

"The club have recently installed CCTV and in conjunction with the CCTV from Kelty Community Centre a group has been captured by the camera which has been passed to police and is being investigated.

"The club have continued to invest in improving the facilities at New Central Park, which are available to use, and enjoyed by both local primary schools, local nurseries and the various age groups from Kelty Hearts Community Club and Kelty Marian Colts.

"Anyone wishing to use the pitch can do so by making a booking through the Community Centre. It is galling to see these investments fall subject to the mindless vandalism currently being witnessed.

"Kelty Hearts and Fife Council would like to emphasise that no-one should be within the perimeter of New Central Park unless attending a game or participating in an organised event which is covered by a pitch booking with Kelty Community Centre.

"Both the club and council are adopting a zero tolerance policy to trespassers within the ground. CCTV will continue to monitor all points of the ground and footage will be shared to the police to assist in any following investigations.

"Anyone with any information regarding the damage within the ground can contact the club secretary by e-mail on secretary@keltyhearts.co.uk or telephone on 07982 725903.

"All correspondence will be treated with the strictest confidence."

A spokesperson from Police Scotland said: "Police received a report of vandalism at New Central Park on Bath Street in Kelty on Wednesday, 3 August, 2022.

"Enquiries are ongoing."

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