Community Rallies After Vandals Damage Heslington Sports Pavilion

A fundraising appeal for Heslington Community Sports Centre in York has raised more than £2,250 in a matter of days, after vandals caused extensive damage to the clubhouse in the early hours of Saturday 17 October.

Windows were smashed, shutters were torn off, and changing room doors and internal locks were kicked in. North Yorkshire Police are treating it as a suspected burglary and have issued an appeal for information. A police spokesperson said no arrests had been made as of Tuesday.

The pavilion is home to football teams through the winter and cricket teams in the summer, and is used by players from junior age groups up to senior level. Heslington Cricket Club said nothing of value was taken, but the repairs would be costly.

“This damage will impact a large number of people from youngsters taking their first sporting steps, to veterans of their respective sport, plus parents and spectators who use the clubhouse for a drink or shelter during poor weather,” the club said.

Rob Stonadge has set up a GoFundMe page with a £3,000 target to cover the repairs and improve security at the site. More than 60 people donated within the first few days, including £100 from Fulford Vikings U14s.

“Funds are being raised to cover repairs necessitated by this completely unnecessary, but sadly becoming more common, attack,” Stonadge wrote. “We will also aim to improve the security measures around the clubhouse in order to deter and prevent future vandalism.”

To support the appeal, visit the GoFundMe page: https://www.gofundme.com/f/heslington-sports-pavilion-repairs