Merthyr RFC have contacted police and are appealing for parents to stop their children from visiting the club’s home ground without permission
The artificial pitch at The Wern in Merthyr Tydfil(Image: Huw Evans Agency)
A Welsh rugby club is investigating after a gang of people tried to set fire to its artificial pitch which is worth hundreds of thousands of pounds. According to Merthyr Rugby Club, the incident happened on Saturday evening at The Wern – the club’s home ground.
Club officials say “a small group of individuals attempted to set fire to our artificial playing surface”, adding that it was a “deliberate attempt” to cause damage. For the latest Merthyr Tydfil news, sign up to our newsletter here.
The club has taken action in the hours that have followed the incident by banning unauthorised attendance at The Wern. Police have been made aware of the vandalism and an investigation is underway.
Merthyr RFC posted on social media: “Earlier this evening (Saturday), a small group of individuals attempted to set fire to our artificial playing surface.
“This isn’t just ‘kids being kids’ – it was a deliberate attempt to damage a facility that costs hundreds of thousands of pounds and serves the entire community.
“Due to this incident, we are forced to move to a zero tolerance policy. No unauthorised attendance at The Wern, only those here for arranged training or match days are permitted to enter the facility.
“Only those playing, permitted to enter the field of play. Mandatory Adult/Parental supervision for all Under17s.
“We are working closely with South Wales Police and reviewing multiple CCTV sources. If you live on the Ynysfach Estate and saw anything this evening (Saturday) or have information that could identify those involved, please message us directly.
“If you are a parent/guardian please ensure you discourage visiting, without a reason to do so. The Wern facility is not a meeting point – unauthorised attendance will be treated as trespass. Don’t let a minority spoil it for the majority.”
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