Helston Rugby Club has spoken out after an ongoing battle against vandalism and littering on the club's grounds, leaving 'substantial damage.'

The club, a vital part of the town for local sports and community activities, is run by volunteers who provide a space for hundreds of children and adults to participate in rugby. However, recent damage to the grounds and facilities is placing a significant strain on their limited resources.

One of the signs has partially been ripped off (Image: Bradley Howe) Following the latest spate of vandalism and littering on the grounds based on Clodgey Lane, Bradley Howe, a coach for the Helston Rugby Club's Men's Team, has made a direct appeal to local parents and members of the community. He said: "If your kids or someone you know hangs around at the rugby club in the evenings in the new dugouts, please have a word."

"There's litter everywhere, signs and fences smashed to bits for no apparent reason. These boards are paid for by local businesses," he explained. "The fence line is getting worse and worse, and despite a purpose-made accessible route by the gate, people continue to cut across the field."

Rubbish left on the grounds (Image: Bradley Howe) Bradley added: "Everyone is trying their best to maintain the place and keep it nice for all involved." He also highlighted that the costs of the damage are substantial, adding, "Even before getting things redone, it's not sustainable to constantly be fixing things.”

"We'd love to be able to fence off the whole pitch, but that would cost tens of thousands of pounds, if not more,” he told the Packet.

He also acknowledged that the issue extends beyond the rugby club. He said: "It's not just the rugby club; the excuse of 'there's nothing to do for the kids in town' is wearing very thin within the community.

Further damage to one of the fences (Image: Bradley Howe) "Vandalism, fly-tipping, and littering isn't the answer to anything – it's dangerous and costly.

“From dog poo, and purposely smashed bottles on the pitch and training areas to ripping signs down we’ve seen it all as I’m sure lots of other places in the town have too.”