Rugby club plea over vandalism

A RALLYING call to the community has been sounded by Oldham Rugby League bosses after yet more vandal attacks at the club’s ground.

Roughyed’s chairman Chris Hamilton has made a plea to locals to help them move forward and become a club to cherish in the face of adversity.

It follows nine attacks in less than a year at the Whitebank Stadium in Limehurst Village, the latest three incidents only three weeks apart.

It was the final straw for the fed-up chairman when a 16ft TV gantry, used to film games, was set on fire last Wednesday, causing thousands of pounds worth of damage.

He said: “We’re asking people to be vigilant and keep an eye out for suspicious goings on.

“This is really a rallying call to any local people or businesses out there willing and able to provide some assistance to please help.

“I’m already at the point now when you almost dread answering the phone.

“It’s very, very hard times. We’re working towards securing the club but we haven’t yet the money and grant aid takes time to get.

“We’re pleading to people not to destroy the club, we want to be part of the community and be a benefit to locals.

“The aim is to grow and become a club that people can be proud of.”

In 2011 the club has also seen four break-ins and two fires on top of the recent attacks.

The club is currently aiming to increase capacity and improve the ground’s floodlights .

Chris thinks the club may have become a repeat target due to the development of the stadium and the increase in buildings and equipment at the site.

He added: “It’s so frustrating.

“We’re not a rich club and with all these attacks it’s simply costing us money to stand still and preventing us from going forward.

“The club has had a long and difficult history and it is a massive step forward to now have a home. We will keep battling on.

“We’ve had some really great feedback from locals who are getting worried themselves and have had enough, that has been so heartening.”