Yobs target sports pitch
Date published: 10 June 2011
A STATE-OF-THE-ART sports pitch designed for the community has been attacked by mindless vandals — before its official opening.
Fitton Hill’s new multi-use games area at St Martin’s Primary School has been targeted in recent weeks.
The 3G synthetic pitch has been burned and rubbish strewn across it by the yobs.
The facility, which cost a share of £350,000 from Oldham’s New Deal for Communities, is due to open on Monday, June 20 — along with a 3G pitch at Hathershaw College and a games area at Broadfield Primary School.
The vandals have also targeted the school — with pupils returning from their half-term holidays to find smashed windows, graffiti and CCTV damage.
Reception children at the school, in St Martin’s Road, found their creative work ripped down from a school wall and a canopy — that provided a covered outdoor area for pupils — was ripped.
Deputy head teacher, Helen Woodward said: “The pupils have been left really upset.
“This has been quite unusual and we rarely have problems, but over the last few weeks we have had a real spate.
“I think it is kids who are doing this and they may be getting through to the school grounds via the near-by new community pitch.
“We are not a school that is constantly being vandalised, it’s just been after Easter, since the pitches were finished.
“Even the pitches are being damaged.”
The school was advised to leave the pitches open for community use so locals can use the games area even before the opening.
The latest vandalism could see security around the pitch tightened.
Childminder Jenny Clegg said: “The pupils come back to school after half-term and they see the damage caused by these vandals. They are so fed-up.
“The staff and the children do a good job to make the school look nice. I know it is the minority, but it spoils it for the rest.”
Police advise anyone with information to call the Oldham West Neighbourhood Policing team on 0161-856 8927.
