Damage to football pitches is ‘soul destroying’ says club

FREQUENT damage caused to pitches at Le Fanu Park in Ballyfermot is “soul destroying” for the local football club, according to Cllr Vincent Jackson (Ind).

Ballyfermot United posted videos of the damage caused to their pitches by scramblers last month.

The club say the problem has gone on “far too often” and risks leaving over 150 kids unable to play home matches due to the vandalism.

“Once again our pitches have become subject to damage from scramblers. Three pitches in total have been completely destroyed, two 11-a-side pitches and one 9-a-side pitch that will affect kids from 11 years of age, up to our over 35s,” said the club in a Facebook post on March 12.

“This has gone on far too often. We now face the possibility of having over 150 players without home matches because of the actions of these individuals.

“It needs to stop, it’s just pure divilment. They returned to destroy our 7v7 and 5v5 pitches, putting all the kids out of action,” said the club.

Scramblers are causing damage to pitches in Le Fanu Park

Cllr Jackson has asked Dublin City Council to “look upon the security” of the park in an effort to stop the “disgraceful anti-social behaviour of a few”.

“These people volunteer their time to serve the needs of children and youths in our communities. To see this constant hassle is soul destroying on their efforts and we must ensure those responsible are held responsible. Can I ask that repairs be carried out as a matter of urgency,” said Cllr Jackson.

Ballyfermot United said there is footage online of the “people responsible along with the damage caused”.

For full access to all content on Echo.ie and to support the continuation of local news and local journalism in your community subscribe HERE. Thanks for your ongoing support.