Arthurlie Football Club is counting the cost of a spate of “soul destroying” vandalism at Dunterlie Park.

Yobs as young as 12 are thought to be responsible for causing thousands of pounds worth of damage in a string of attacks.

The latest incident took place on Sunday night, when the main entrance was forced open before kiosk windows were smashed, cladding was ripped off and bins were hurled onto the pitch.

In previous attacks, trespassers have scattered broken glass on the playing surface and used it as a bicycle track.

Arthurlie club secretary Jim Hannigan told the Barrhead News: “This is mindless vandalism.

“We have spent £6,000 on improving the playing surface, which is a big sum for us.

“Unfortunately, the club’s finances will take a hit for repairs and replacements.

“It is soul destroying and sickening, as we are all volunteers. We are giving up our spare time to turn the club into a community asset and then this happens.”

Arthurlie play in the West of Scotland Premier Division, having gained promotion last season, and regularly attract large crowds to Dunterlie Park.

The vandalised kiosks are used to sell food, programmes and lottery tickets, bringing in much-needed revenue.

On a previous occasion, a shutter was forced open and the electricity supply to a freezer was switched off, leaving all of the food inside ruined.

Local youths had previously been asked by club officials not to play on the pitch after it was treated with chemicals Mr Hannigan added: “Unfortunately, we can’t keep an eye on the place 24 hours a day.

“There are a lot of good kids in this town but a small minority seem hell-bent on causing trouble.

“We are trying to encourage young people along to the club because they are the future, the supporters of tomorrow. I say to them ‘come and help us.’ “Many people appreciate how hard we are working to get the club back to where it used to be.”

Police have appealed for information about the vandalism.

Inspector Michelle Grant said: "Our officers attended after receiving a report of vandalism at Dunterlie Park, Carlibar Road, Barrhead. This occurred overnight between Sunday and Monday.

"Enquiries are ongoing and I would ask anyone with any information to contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident number 1037 of September 26."