Cricket attacks condemned

At least four cricket pitches in the North West were vandalised over recent months with Bonds Glen Cricket Club becoming the latest victim when weedkiller was poured on two of six wickets at the remote club causing several hundreds of pounds worth of damage.

The Bonds Glen vandalism followed separate attacks at Brigade (7,000 worth of damage), Limavady (30,000 worth of damage) and Glendermott over recent weeks.

Mr Hay met with the PSNI on Monday to discuss the attacks and called on anyone with information to come forward to the authorities.

He said those responsible were attacking the entire community and that it was difficult to understand their motivation.

“This spate of attacks on cricket clubs right across the North West - from Limavady to Bonds Glen - is not just an attack on the cricket fraternity but an attack on us all,” he told the Sentinel.

“I want to condemn those responsible. I’d also ask the people behind the attacks: Why are they doing this?” he asked.

“My view is that a pattern is emerging and in some cases rural, remote clubs are being targeted. I’ve asked the PSNI to keep a watchful eye over the rest of the summer. It is very concerning.”

The local DUP representative said it was tragic to see cricket targeted given its cross-community appeal in Londonderry.

“Even during the difficult years in Northern Ireland both sides of the community played cricket together and they still do. It’s a tragedy you have people attacking a sport that brings people together. Hopefully the PSNI will be able to bring those responsible to justice,” he said.

“Damage brought about by these attacks are causing tens of thousands of pounds worth of damage. I know in Limavady the club is losing considerable earnings because they are not able to play at their ground. This has to stop,” he demanded.