A PILOT scheme to allow youngsters access to the Marr playing fields showpiece 3G pitches has been introduced following a recent spate of vandalism.

Goal nets and goal posts were damaged along with the wire fence after people forced their way into the community facility.

However at a meeting of Troon Community Council last Tuesday, it was suggested that the incidents had taken place after youngsters had been frustrated at not being able to use the facilities when lets were not in use.

And it was decided by South Ayrshire Council to open them up during the day.

Community Councillor Frances Carson said the facilities at Marr Playing Fields were for the whole of the community, not just those who had paid for lets.

She added: “Young people deserve an opportunity to use them. This is a good idea and I welcome it.” Those at the meeting said they hoped the pilot scheme would be extended if everything went well.”

The pilot programme which sees the pitches open during the day began on August 17 and it is set to be reviewed soon.

Meanwhile Community Council chairwoman Helen Duff said there had been concerns about the maintenance of the pitches.

She said: “I think more cleaning is needed on the pitches. For instance if there was blood on the surface, it possible someone could get contaminated. I have asked South Ayrshire Council to look into this issue and report back to us.”

The 3G pitches were introduced in 2015 and have been a huge success with people throughout the community using them.