Youth club forced to shut after 'senseless' vandalism

A charity that runs youth clubs for 11 to 18-year-olds has been forced to stop its services after its centre was vandalised.

Vision 4 Youth in Yateley, Hampshire, said a "small group broke in and covered the place in cooking oil, eggs and rubbish" last weekend.

The organisation, which works to support 160 young people each week, is fundraising to help pay for the clear-up so it can reopen.

Abby Roper, development manager at Vision 4 Youth, said vandals had left the site "a complete mess and it was totally senseless".

She said: "Nothing was stolen, but vandals got hold of cooking equipment, oil and eggs - they've just thrown it around, it's everywhere - the walls, the floor, the games, our TV - everything is covered.

"We have had to close this week - we usually support 160 people so we've had to turn them all away.

"The place is not safe - it's so slippery in there it's like a skating rink."

Ms Roper added: "It's so bad we are having to have it professionally cleaned and then we will have to repaint and replace our equipment."

The charity has so far raised about £1,000.

"It really means a lot to have the local community behind us as we are a small independent charity," Ms Roper said.

"It's fantastic to see the community support like that."

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