A grassroots football club in Leicester has launched an urgent fundraising appeal after its pitches were left badly damaged in a deliberate act of vandalism.
The incident took place on Friday 9 January 2026, when a vehicle was driven onto the pitches at Whetstone Athletic Football Club. The driver carried out wheel spins and doughnuts on the soft grass, causing extensive damage and rendering the playing surfaces unsafe.
Picture credit: Whetstone Athletic
As a result, the pitches are currently unplayable and will require significant repair work before matches and training can resume. The disruption has already had a major impact, with seven teams unable to play and more than 100 local children missing out on football this weekend.
The appeal is being organised by club secretary Kirk Nicol, who said the damage has left the volunteer-run club facing a substantial and unexpected repair bill.
“Whetstone Athletic plays a vital role in the local community,” he said. “We support over 500 children of all ages and abilities, and incidents like this hit incredibly hard. Our volunteers work tirelessly to provide a safe, welcoming place for young people to enjoy football, and this senseless act undermines all of that effort.”
Funds raised will go towards repairing and restoring the damaged pitches so football can resume safely, as well as installing secure fencing to prevent vehicles from accessing the site and to protect the pitches from future damage.
The club has confirmed it holds images of the vehicle involved in the incident. Anyone who recognises the vehicle or has information about those responsible is urged to contact the police or come forward to assist.
Picture credit: Whetstone Athletic
Supporters are being encouraged to donate if they can and to share the appeal widely within local community groups.
“Every donation, no matter the size, will help us get local children back on the pitches doing what they love,” Nicol added. “We’re asking the community to come together to help protect this club and its future.”
So far over £3,000 has been raised of the £10,000 target.
To donate, visit: https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/whetstoneathletic
