An Aberdeen councillor has called for local residents to rally behind a north-east bowling club, which has been forced to close after being targeted by vandals.
Grandholm Bowling Club has shut down after four incidents of fire-raising since the end of November. Earlier this week, part of the property was broken into, while another section was set on fire.
The spate of criminal offences on the organisation has taken its toll. Eric Jamieson, the president of the , revealed they had decided the cost of the repairs was too much and it would not be reopening.
He said: “We’ve had to pack it in.
“It’s become ridiculous.
“They’ve done so much damage and left us with no equipment – there’s nothing left to carry on.
“We’ve no longer got the facilities for us to meet with our friends and play bowls.
“I don’t think there’s anything I can say to the culprits.
“It just seems ridiculous they can do this to pensioners who like to enjoy their summers playing bowls.”
Councillor Barney Crockett, who represents the Bucksburn, Dyce and Danestone Ward, called for people to “rally behind” the volunteers.
He said: “I think it is tragic that the bowling club run by volunteers has had to take this action.
“I think all the voluntary organisations in the city need to work together to help them and to make sure that the culprits are caught and suitable action is brought against them.
“We need to rally behind them.
“I would appeal for anyone with information about the vandalism to contact the police.”
Constable Heather Taylor, who is investigating the incident, revealed the extent of the damage.
She said: “The persons responsible also entered the clubhouse and damaged a trophy cabinet, picture frames and various items within.
“The deliberate starting of fires is completely unacceptable and creates an obvious risk to those setting the fire as well as to residents or businesses in nearby buildings.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact Police Scotland on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111 if you wish to remain anonymous.
