A Highland boxing club is offering a sporting chance to whoever was responsible for breaking into its premises.
Should the individual or individuals come clean, they would not face any repercussions if they opted to join up and practise the noble art.
The first two sessions would be free if they committed to using the ring to help turn their lives around.
The unusual offer comes in the wake of a raid on Wick Boxing Club’s base at the former South School in Roxburgh Road.
Club founder and head coach Liall Mackenzie yesterday said it is a genuine approach to help some good come from the incident.
He said: “I’m a big believer in giving people a chance to help address serious issues they may have going on in their lives or who maybe have not been given the support they needed while they were growing up.
“Hatred and animosity only causes more of the same and giving some support at a particular stage in life can provide a different outcome.”
Mackenzie, a pro boxer, said the club would hold no grudge against whoever carried out the raid if they returned and signed up as members.
He said: “We’d tell them to put their focus and energy into something positive: to train hard, earn self-respect and feel brilliant within themselves.”
The post on the club Facebook site adds: “Don’t be a wee numpty breaking into places – turn things around.”
The firefighter, 30, said it looks like a crowbar or similar tool was used in the break-in late on Thursday night or early Friday morning last week.
He said: “Fortunately nothing was stolen though we never leave any money lying around and there were just items of kit and club gear we have for sale there. We’ll need to get a joiner in to fix the door as a strip of wood affixed to the bottom of it has been completely ripped off.”
A police spokesman said: “Inquiries are ongoing into the incident and anyone with information which could assist police is asked to come forward.”