A youth club in Johnstone has had two trampolines destroyed by fire, thought to be set alight by local kids.
The trampolines are used by the regular members the youth club based at Johnstone Castle Learning Centre in Pine Crescent, Johnstone. The centre recently underwent a refurbishment.
It is thought that the trampolines were set alight around 8.45pm on Monday night. Police are checking CCTV to try and find those responsible. A local councillor has said that some of the security measures used to protect the centre were removed during the refurbishment.
The club looks set to replace the trampolines for the third time even though they are placed behind a large fence and should be secure.
Jean Gallagher, a volunteer at the youth club told Renfrewshire News: “We’ve not long replaced the trampolines, it’s the second time in five weeks. The first set was damaged by kids coming into the grounds after hours.
“They are designed for no more than 1 or 2 children at a time but around 5 or 6 would sit and bounce on them and they gave way.
“I got a call that they were on fire and by the time I got there the fire was out and the fire service has already left. We regularly see the same kids hanging around and have told the Police who they are.
“We will try to replace the trampolines and will look at folding ones so they can be brought inside.”
A local woman, who does not want to be named, lives in the same street as the community centre is worried some of the children climbing the building may get hurt.
She said: “I fear for these kids, it’s regular. Someone will fall one of these days and be seriously hurt. I’ve called the Police more than once but they’re gone by the time they arrive.”
Councillor John Hood, who lives nearby said: “I have raised the issue of the security of the centre after some of the security measures were taken away after refurbishment and will continue to work on this issue.
“I will also see if there is anything that the council can do to replace the trampolines.”
Chief executive of Renfrewshire Leisure, Joyce McKellar said: “Vandalism to leisure equipment and facilities means people living in that community are prevented from enjoying the use of that equipment.
“And if those causing the damage live in that community, they are most likely hurting their own family, friends and neighbours the most.
“Renfrewshire Leisure is currently reviewing the security measures at Johnstone Castle Community Learning Centre to see what, if any, improvements could be made.
“The Community Warden team has also been alerted to the situation at the Learning Centre and warden patrols will continue to monitor the area with further support provided by Police Scotland.
“We urge people who witness vandalism and anti-social behaviour to contact the Police, either by dialing 101 or 999 if it is an emergency.”