Mill United in Hamilton 'deeply saddened' after pitch vandalised on Bonfire Night

A South Lanarkshire football club has said it is “deeply saddened” after its pitch was used as a bonfire site.

Mill United, based in Hamilton, shared a photo on Friday showing the centre of its pitch at Fairhill Park charred black from the fire.

The club’s committee said the pitch could now be unusable for the rest of the season.

It comes following a night of disorder on Bonfire Night, which saw fireworks thrown at emergency crews and a police car set alight. Seven people have been arrested in connection as enquiries continue.

A statement from Mill United said they are “deeply saddened” and “children will suffer” as a result of the vandalism.

“While families across the community were enjoying Fireworks Night last night, Mill United FC was left dealing with the devastating consequences of mindless vandalism”, it read.

“Sadly, individuals chose to use the centre of one of our football pitches as a bonfire site, causing significant damage to the playing surface. The impact of this irresponsible behaviour will be felt for months, with the possibility that the pitch could be unusable for the remainder of the season.

“The real consequence of these actions is that it is our children who will suffer.

“Young players, many of whom live within the local community, could now lose access to a facility that provides them with the opportunity to play football, develop and enjoy being part of a team.

“It is incredibly disappointing and frustrating that people think this kind of behaviour is acceptable. A facility used by hundreds of local children, families and teams has been damaged, and it is our club and the wider football community across Lanarkshire who will now have to deal with the repercussions.

“Everyone at Mill United FC is deeply saddened by what has happened. We hope those responsible understand the impact their actions have had, not just on our club, but on the many young people who rely on these facilities every week.

“Please respect our community facilities. They belong to everyone, and ultimately it is our children who pay the price when they are damaged.”

Police Scotland have been contacted for comment.