Probe launched after break-in 'damages' football ground in North Ayshire

Cops are investigating a break-in which caused damage at a non-league football ground in North Ayrshire.

The incident took place at Ardeer Stadium in Old Quarry Road on Saturday.

It is understood to have happened between 2.30pm and 5.30pm after Ardeer Thistle’s West of Scotland League Third Division match with Greenock was postponed.

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “An investigation is underway following a break-in at a football stadium in Old Quarry Road, Stevenston.

“The incident was reported to police around 7.05pm on Saturday, January 6 and enquiries are ongoing.”

The club said on its Facebook page on Saturday night: “Unfortunately we’ve had a phone call informing us the clubhouse has been broken into and a significant amount of damage has been done.

“As a club with a thriving youth academy, we have kids playing on the park which has now got broken glass over it.

“We are trying really hard to move the club forward and won’t let this setback stop us [at] Ardeer Thistle FC.”

Saltcoats and Stevenston councillor Jean McClung said: “Personally, I am very disappointed to think that anyone living locally would target a community group in this way.

“Let’s just hope the police get to the bottom of the matter!”