Vandals smash every window and door in Westleigh pavilion

WESTLEIGH officials are still working out the full cost of vandal on the club pavilion that left every pane of glass in the building broken.

The attack is thought to have taken place on Tuesday evening, shortly after a pub in nearby Instow also had its windows broken. It was discovered on Wednesday morning when volunteer workers went to the ground for preparation work ahead of the new season.

Bi-fold doors at the front of the pavilion have been broken, along with the dressing room windows.

Club member James Starkey, who is dealing with the aftermath of the attack, said: “I am disappointed to say the pavilion has been vandalised again.

“Only a few years ago someone decided they wanted to burn it down, and now, someone has decided to smash all the windows.

“It's upsetting anyone would want to do this, and even more disappointing to happen to such a small club who struggle for funds without having to fix problems like these.

“As a club we're indebted to the hard work of a small number and for them to see the ground in this way is the most disappointing thing of all.

“The vandalism is completely mindless and in such a small community you'd hope that someone would know something.

“Nothing has been taken from the pavilion, it was purely done for the enjoyment of smashing the place up.

“If anyone has any information, please let me or someone from the club know, or call Crimestoppers (0800 555111) and quote CR025210/17

“We will rebuild and we will be better and the club will continue to have people enjoy cricket every week.”

The present clubhouse was erected in 2011 to replace one burned down in an apparent arson attack the previous year.

The work cost around £25,000 and would have been substantially more without generous contributions from cricket-loving tradesmen.

Starkey said once insurance assessors have put a cost on the damage, repair work will begin.

“Having had insurance claims before our premiums are high and we don’t want them going higher if it can be avoided,” said Starkey.

“Encouragingly, we have already had offers of help and as soon as the insurance company give us the go ahead we will be getting in contact.”

Westleigh had planned a fund-raising quiz and social night across the water at Bideford RFC later this month, which is now has added importance.

“It is April 21 at Bideford and we have already had offers of prizes to help with our fund-raising effort.”

Anyone interested in taking part in the quiz, putting up a raffle prize or helping with the repairs or fund-raising effort should contact Starkey