Thieves steal massive patch of fake grass from Derry pitch

£800 worth of damage has been caused to a community pitch in Derry after thieves cut out and stole a massive patch of fake grass from the facility.

The incident happened at the 2G Multi Use Games Area (MUGA) in the grounds of the Creggan Community Centre on Wednesday, June 4, where a large section of the pitch’s surface, measuring eight feet by 30 feet, was stolen.

The area from where the grass was removed from is pictured above.

A number of nets were also damaged during the incident.

The facility is owned by Derry City Council but managed on behalf of the community by the Creggan Neighbourhood Partnership (CNP).

The pitch has now been temporarily closed as a result.

A spokesperson for Derry City Council confirmed that the total cost of the damage is £800.

"Council is aware of damage to the 2G pitch on the grounds of the Creggan Community Centre and the area has now been secured with a view to replacing the damaged section of the 2G pitch," the spokesperson said.

The spokesperson added that the repair work is expected to be completed by the end of next week.