Scots football charity forced to close doors after vandals trash community hub during theft

A Scottish football charity has been forced to close its doors after vandals trashed the community hub during a theft.

The grounds outside The Killie Community's building in Kilmarnock were ripped up as copper piping was stolen.

It came after the charity had installed renewable energy technologies in a bid to reduce running costs.

The building, which is used for programmes hosted by the charity, sits opposite Kilmarnock FC's Rugby Park.

Football camps and other activities are hosted in the building, but it will not open as repairs are carried out.

And the charity has launched a crowdfunder to try to offset the losses caused by the theft.

More than £400 of the £2,145 target had been raised by 10am this morning.

A post on The Killie Community Facebook page revealed the crime.

It said: "This week, we arrived at The Killie Community Hub to some really sad news."Over recent months, thanks to fundraising and support from our community, we’ve been installing renewable energy technologies at the Hub - a long-term investment to reduce running costs and keep this space open for local people.

"Sadly, we discovered that external copper piping has been ripped out and stolen. The damage means the building can’t safely operate while repairs are assessed.

"As a result, all programmes based at the Hub this week have been cancelled. All other Killie Community programmes at venues across Ayrshire are continuing as normal.

"This is incredibly disappointing, not just for us, but for the young people, families, and older members of the community who rely on the Hub each week. 

"This building exists for the community, and seeing it vandalised like this is hard.

"We’re sharing this openly to raise awareness of the reality faced by local charities and community spaces, and to call on anyone who can help us reopen with enhanced security around our heating system.

"If you or your organisation may be able to help in any way, please email team@killiecommunity.co.uk

"We’re working hard to get our Hub back open as quickly and safely as possible. Thank you to everyone who has already reached out with messages of support, it really does mean a lot."

The crowdfunder can be accessed here.

Police Scotland has been contacted for comment.