Kentish Express Ashford & District
Club saddened by insulting graffiti on damaged sign
Investigation after teen footballer targeted
A football club is appealing for information after vandals targeted one of their youth players with offensive graffiti.
The insult, which has been censored for the purposes of this story, was found daubed on the Pilgrims FC sign last Thursday.
The sign was also left badly damaged, with dents and holes ripped into the badge and name.
Members of the club, which plays on the Great Chart playing fields, have been badly affected by the incident.
A spokesman said: “It could have happened any time from Wednesday through to Thursday morning, which was when it was discovered.
“What was said was absolutely disgusting and we are taking it very, very seriously.
“We’ve had contact with police and are doing all we can to find out who is behind it.”
A parent at the club, which has 13 teams from under-seven to adult levels, has set up a fundraiser to replace the sign.
They said: “Thank you in advance to everyone who contributes to this cause that means so much to the club, and all youngsters who have benefited from the club’s valuable ethos.
“It is very sad, we try as hard as we can to provide the best environment.
“It is made so hard with things like this as it is just more money being spent that didn’t need to be spent.”
The sign has since been removed from the playing fields.
■ If you would like to donate to the fundraiser, visit bit. ly/3a1us5e
■ Anyone with any information is asked to call police on 01843 222289, quoting reference 46/32727/20.