Sports pavilion at Jackey Bakers recreation ground in Ramsgate closed after being wrecked by vandals
12:00, 11 August 2016
A wrecking spree by vandals has led to the closure of a sports pavilion.
Police are investigating the incident which took place at Jackey Bakers recreation ground, Highfield Road, Ramsgate.
A video has emerged, taken on the same evening, of youngsters entering the sports facility and punching a wall.
Video: Footage shows boy punching wall in pavilion
The extensive damage caused to the pavilion on Sunday evening has left it shut, with asbestos specialists due on site tomorrow to assess the damage and risk.
Groundsman James Dexter said: "It looks like they came in through the roof and opened the back door.
"Before the video was taken there was damage to the roof but I went back after I was shown it and there was all this extra damage.
"I have also heard from people that they have been tearing bits of asbestos out of the roof and throwing it at dog walkers.
"I understand people cause mischief as kids but this is another level, they kicked bricks out of the back wall, the referees room had a small shower, toilet and sink all broken, there was damage to changing rooms too.
"I'm not actually worried about them getting caught, I would just like them to realise that this is my job and it is screwing with people's lives.
"People play football at the ground and get changed there. The whole building needs to be fixed now before that can happen again.
"There isn't much in Thanet but what we do have we'd like to keep.
"Just getting them to stop doing this would be nice."
The site is run by Your Leisure on behalf of Thanet District Council.
Your Leisure managing director Steve Davis said: "It is sad but it happens every August and it is the third time damage has been caused to the building this week.
"There are specialist asbestos teams coming in to deal with the debris tomorrow.
"The rubble inside cant be touched at the moment."
Kent Police spokesman Martin Very said: "We are investigating the report of criminal damage at a sports ground in Highfield Road, Ramsgate, between 6.30pm and 9pm on Sunday, August 7.
"It is reported that damage was caused to windows and fittings in a bathroom facility.
"Inquires are ongoing and anyone who has any information is asked to contact us on 01843 222289 or Kent Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 quoting reference ZY/027312/16."
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