Football club 'heartbroken' after pitch set on fire

A police investigation has been launched after a fire was started deliberately on the pitch of Dunipace Football Club.

Dunipace FC ‘heartbroken’ after pitch set on fire — The club faces a bill of six figures to repair the damage. Dunipace FC via Supplied

20th May 2023

A Stirlingshire football club have said they are “heartbroken” after their pitch was deliberately set on fire.

East of Scotland league side Dunipace FC said the artificial surface at Westfield Park in Denny suffered extensive damage after being set alight on Friday evening.

The club now faces a bill running to six figures to repair the damage.

They tweeted: “Absolutely heartbroken at the damage done to Westfield last night.

“Damage is estimated in six figures and anyone with information please contact the police or club.”

Westfield Park. Dunipace FC via Supplied

It is believed some youth matches have had to be postponed. Dunipace FC via Supplied

Dunipace initially cancelled its next home match against Preston Athletic on Saturday before the club was offered to use Stenhousemuir’s Ochilview Stadium.

Local MSP and health secretary Michael Matheson tweeted: “A brilliant community club doing great work in the local area have had their pitch badly damaged by mindless vandalism.

“It’s heartbreaking for everyone at the club and the local community.”

Police Scotland said enquiries into the blaze remain ongoing.

A spokesperson said: “The fire was extinguished by the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service and there were no reports of any injuries.

“The fire is being treated as wilful and inquiries are ongoing.”