Vandals damage Preston Athletic's Pennypit Park home

Vandalism was carried out at the Pennypit during the weekend of November 14-15, with perspex in the away dugout targeted, as well as seating.

An exact figure for the repairs at the home of Preston Athletic is yet to be drawn up but club officials fear it could be about £800.

Fundraiser Davie Martin, from Tranent, has set up an online fundraising page in a bid to cover the cost.

Lesley Birrell, the club secretary, told the Courier: “It is not the first time it has happened.”

Perspex in the dugout has been damaged, with wood at the back of it also attacked by vandals, while seating appears to have been “shaved”.

She said: “A couple of weeks ago, we had a home game and we had gone down super early.

“The stand was an absolute mess with broken bottles, empty cans and somebody had done the toilet.”

The club is looking to upgrade the CCTV system at the East of Scotland Football League (EOSFL) ground.

The secretary also thanked Mr Martin for launching the appeal to help cover the costs, which comes at a time when football clubs across the country do not have the benefit of fans coming through the turnstiles.

Mr Martin posted on social media: “The club has no funds coming in to help meet the costs of repair so I am asking for the help of supporters, businesses and the community to meet these costs.

“They are also looking to upgrade the CCTV in place to allow them to protect the facilities from future vandalism, and help bring those responsible to justice for such actions.

“This club is like every other football club at the moment. They are struggling big time and run by a small group of volunteers who are passionate about the club and its history, and probably feel embarrassed to ask for support to fix these repairs in this manner through these tough times. But they are a major part of the community. So I would appreciate any help given to them.”

To support the online appeal, go to gofundme.com/f/v8wg3-preston-athletic-football-club