Ransacked centre is due to be revived

Boothtown Terriers Juniors are taking over the running of Boothtown Centre after it was ransacked by burglars.

Thousands of pounds worth of damage was caused at Boothtown Centre on Grantham Road by burglars who stole a mobility scooter, video games console and a projector.

There were fears that the centre would have to be closed down completely or even demolished before rugby league club Boothtown Terriers stepped in to help with the cleanup and look after the building for its junior team.

Paul Farrell, from the club, said: “The centre is an ideal size for Boothtown Terriers as this will allow the club to grow over the years, however it is not oversized at the moment as we already have a number of teams who will be able to put the centre to full use.

Douge Robertshaw picture at Boothtown Centre, which was trashed by burglars.

“Boothtown Terriers have been establish for 30th years, with a very successful season this year as they won the Joseph Fee Cup, Halifax Cup and finish league champions.

“We have junior, open age and masters rugby at the club which means we welcome all ages.

“We plan for the centre and surrounding playing fields to be used on week day evenings and weekends. This is for rugby training and junior league games as the club is going to be part of the Yorkshire Junior League.”

Club treasure Mel Moran said: “We’re hoping that it being put back into use will deter further vandalism.”

Centre volunteer Dougie Robertshaw, who was devastated when after the raid, said: “For the moment the centre is back in business.”

Club members lead the cleanup at the centre will take over the bills and cost of running the centre.

A carpet was donated by Brighouse Art Circle to replace one that was badly damage in the raid. The club is still open for Boothtown people and other sports clubs are welcome to make use.

The recently established junior branch of the club is looking for children aged 7-10 to make up its ranks.

Anyone interested can contact Paul Farrell on [email protected].

Anyone who saw anything suspicious in the area during the week up until Tuesday June 7 should call police on 101.