A CENTURIES-old cricket pitch was churned-up in a second incident which left a village counting the cost of vandalism.

"Mindless hooligans" struck on Meopham Green, where cricket has been played since the mid-1700s, when a car was driven in a figure-eight carving deep ruts in the outfield.

Chairman of the club Brian Sambrook said: "I don't know why anyone would do something like this. It's not just our cricket pitch, it is a community amenity which has been spolied. Our curator Mr Hurley never stops working to keep the ground in good condition.

"It will recover because it came at the end of the season and the ruts can be rolled out but it will need more hard work."

Shortly before, more than £1,000 of damage was done to the football pavilion and security fencing at Judsons' Recreation Ground in the village. It is not known whether the two incidents are connected.

Several holes were punched in the felt roof of the pavilion and broken glass was thrown inside. Heavy rains seeped through the roof and damaged the ceiling.

Clerk of Meopham Parish Council, Peter Tennyson, said: "It is just dreadful. This persistent vandalism is getting worse and seems to coincide with school holidays. It is eating into our budget and we estimate about 10 per cent of the money we get from Gravesham could now go on repairs and increased security."

These are the latest in the increasingly expensive incidents of vandalism in Meopham over the last few years. A police spokesman confirmed they have stepped up patrols in the area at the request of the parish council, saying: "The villages already have a dedicated Rural Tactical Team which works alongside the rural beat officers. Call police on 01322 283111 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111 about the incidents, which happened during half-term.

November 6, 2001 12:49