Vandalism of two city premises brings out best in the community

GOOD WILL: A&B Taxis and McLeod Glaziers come to rescue as missiles fly through two shops’ windows

A spate of vandal attacks in Perth city centre has brought out the best and worst in the community, according to charity bosses and business owners.

Perth Autism Support (PAS) and the Must Eat takeaway both had missiles thrown through their windows on Thursday night.

PAS had a brick launched through the glass at the charity’s Market Street base and feared it might have to suspend some of its services while the damage was repaired.

However, after the team explained the situation on Facebook, two local businesses came to the rescue.

A&B Taxis and McLeod Glaziers joined forces to have the pane of glass replaced and split the cost.

PAS chief executive Angie Ferguson said: “We had an incredible two hours and it’s all down to the power of the community.

The community solved this for us, not only replacing the window but at no cost. ANGIE FERGUSON

“Whether it was drunkenness or stupidity, we faced a massive financial impact. We had 30 children in on Friday morning, had to rearrange one-to-ones and we make income from renting out the rooms.

“The community solved this for us, not only replacing the window but at no cost.”

McLeod chief executive Derek Petterson said: “I used to be on the board of PAS so I know how fantastic the team are.

“A&B Taxis approached us and said they’d split the cost with us, which we were happy to do. It’s not fair for anyone to get a brick through their window.”

The nearby Must Eat takeaway was also targeted in a similar attack.

Aziz Rehman, owner of the North Methven Street premises, had three of his windows smashed.

He revealed he had called the police after being racially threatened the week before.

Mr Rehman said: “They smashed our windows and the TV displays as well. It’s not cheap to get the replacement glass and the TVs cost about £250 each, and then we have to get them all reprogrammed.

“We’re opening up because we don’t want to close but it’s not good for business.”

Police said they were investigating both incidents and have appealed to anyone with information to call 101.