Newquay Football Club has been hit by the worst vandalism in 50 years after the ground was daubed in “racist and obscene” graffiti.
Three youths were allegedly spotted climbing over the gate into the Mount Wise Stadium shortly before the damage occurred on Wednesday (April 17) at 3.15pm.
Racist and obscene language was spray painted on to the grandstand, dug outs, advertising hoardings and signage.
Newquay AFC was inundated with offers from people in the community willing to volunteer their time and materials to remove the graffiti after hearing what happened.
Club volunteers managed to remove some of the spray paint on Thursday morning.
The club wanted the graffiti to be cleaned off as soon as possible as they had a game in the evening and did not want youngsters to see the obscene language used.
A spokesperson for Newquay AFC said: “Three youths were seen by passers by climbing over the gate into the stadium before the damage was done.
“We’re sure with all the evidence left at the ground, and the information from the good people of Newquay, those responsible will be found quickly.
“It is sad to see as the club are deeply involved with the youngsters of the town. Over 400 boys and girls of all ages, play under the Newquay AFC official umbrella every weekend. No doubt some of them will have heard something.
“If you know of anyone or have seen anyone acting suspiciously around the ground please get in contact with us before we have to rely on CCTV. This damage will affect our club and its players dearly.”
Newquay AFC committee member Ian Carhart added: “I have never seen vandalism like this at the football club in the 50 years I’ve been here. We’re just thankful that the club has got such a great bunch of volunteers.
“They are superb. Not many football clubs in the county have got help like we have.”
Read more in next week’s Voice.