‘Mindless vandals’ wreck veterans charity headquarters in Ashton Park

Dig In, a veterans charity based in Ashton Park, have been subjected to devastating break-ins in recent weeks, with the last happening on Wednesday, 16 June.

Dig In provide peer support for veterans, therapeutic activities and distraction therapy including gardening and woodwork.

Vandals smashed the glass in the greenhouse two weeks ago, and attempted to get into the cabin, which is affectionately known as the ‘brew room’ by service users. Last night, they were sadly successful.

Rubbish was strewn all over the premises

Last night, they managed to ‘wreck’ the whole Dig In headquarters, with the culprits even discharging the fire extinguisher.

The charity were just managing to get back on their feet after having to shut due to coronavirus, and now they are facing another set back.

A crime scene investigator has been to the scene, and has managed to obtain some evidence which has been taken away for analysis.

The window was smashed and vandals were able to gain access to the building

Claire Grant, Dig In manager, said: “This place, to the people that come here, is so important. Especially at the moment.

“Many suffer mental health problems, loneliness, and to them, this place is a lifeline. Because people are starting to get out and about now, it’s devastating for this to happen. To have to turn them away this morning was honestly heart breaking.

“We want to give people support and allow them to socialise – we’re here to provide that service for veterans, and it’s really sad we can’t because of mindless criminals.”