Saints youngsters hit by vandalism

A member of the Saints team writes: "Saturday, and a great morning for football training, a light covering of snow over a firm playing surface and the sun shining. The air only dampened by the greeting Audlem Saints' coaches faced when approaching the storage shed, they saw the door forced open and a few footballs scattered around the area.

"A shame that what is essentially a free session for all kids in the area, that is funded by contributions from the community, and occasionally through available grants, where time is freely given by the coaches and support staff, parents and guardians, that certain elements of a society can openly abuse the efforts of the people who really benefit and enjoy this facility.

"The disappointment would be if the perpetrators had been involved in the Saints at some stage, though we find this hard to believe, given the enjoyment all involved have benefitted and experienced, and the goodwill and support the Saints have received over the last six years. This may not be malicious, may be just high jinks, but for us it's the loss of a dozen footballs and equipment.

"We are not 100% sure when this has happened this week. Youths were seen with a football on Wednesday evening in the village, though this is not unusual activity (that's what we are all about), and also a rather boisterous group were around the area late last night and the early hours this morning. As it happens, there were items found around the area that will be useful to identify people who have been in the vicinity. Checks will also be carried out with the various CCTV units that cover all the approaches to the park etc.

"In the mean time, if anyone does find any footballs, please just return them to the fenced storage area – it will be appreciated."

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