A youth organisation in Dalmellington has been left upset after their football park was vandalised last weekend, leaving the fencing destroyed.

Volunteers at The Zone Initiative, based on High Main Street in the town, discovered the break-in on the morning of Monday, September 21. They believe the incident to have taken place on the evening of Sunday 20.

Volunteers have now been left with no other choice than to lock up the popular park, regularly frequented by local kids and parents, as they look to install CCTV cameras in a bid to safeguard themselves and their property from further reckless behaviour.

Elaine Stewart, Project Manager, said: “We got a phone call to say a couple of youths were kicking at it but by Monday the full thing had been kicked off. Whether it was them or not, I don’t know, but they’ve obviously been hanging around.

“Loads of kids use it, especially at weekends as it’s a free service. The actions of a few young folk are going to deter that now. Putting CCTV up allows us to track whoever’s doing it and to get the police involved.

“This is the first time it’s happened but it’s brand new. £140,000 was spent on renewing it only last year so we don’t want that going to waste. It’s other young people that are going to miss out.”

Cumnock Chronicle:

As they look to repair the fence, The Zone Initiative are proud to launch a new meals on wheels service in partnership with BACUS café and supported by East Ayrshire Council.

The service is aimed at the local communities of Dalmellington and Patna for people over 65 who feel such a service would benefit them.

The Initiative has also received a funding boost to add exciting new features to their adventure playpark.

Elaine explained: “This service became evident during lockdown when we delivered over 2000 healthy meals to our older shielding community.

“Our feedback intimated that such a service would be well received and to date, over the last few weeks, more than 25 people are using this service.

“We have also received funding from FCC Scottish Action Fund to install a beautiful pirate ship, octopus’ roundabout and shark and whale springers to add to our exciting adventure playpark.

“We are hoping to staff this every weekend through the Kick Start job fund if we are successful with our bid to provide employment for local people.”

For more information on the meals on wheels service, contact Kelly on a Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday on 01292551888