A ‘mindless attack’ has left a community centre in Oldham with more than £10,000 of damage just before Christmas. Holts Community Centre, on Near Birches Parade in the Holts housing estate, was last week targeted by vandals.
Photos show the extent of the damage, which includes a hole broken through the door, pulling down electrical cables and spraying printer ink on the walls.
It is believed that the same individuals returned on a separate day to set fire to an outbuilding of the community centre, which prompted a call to Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service.
First Choice Homes Oldham, who own the building containing the centre, says it has been forced to secure the building several times. An investigation by police is ongoing.
The centre will be closed for repairs until the new year. The reduced cost food service The Bread and Butter Thing, which usually operates from the site, has been moved to the Roc ‘n’ Rolls café next door, FCHO confirmed.
Jayne Lawson, an executive director with the social housing provider, said: “This is a mindless attack on a much-needed community centre and we will do all we can to work with the police and the local community to find out who is responsible.
“The local community is very aware and angry this has happened to the centre and I would urge anyone who knows who did this to get in contact with Greater Manchester Police immediately.
“We are doing all we can to ensure the building is safe and secure and open again soon. The key message is The Bread and Butter Thing is unaffected as it has just moved next door. It is vital this service can continue at this time of year especially.”
The community centre supports local families with free and affordable family events, such as the recent ‘Grinchmas Christmas party’ for kids, or with reduced-price Christmas dinners, and Christmas help parcels.
Reacting to the news of the vandalism, Holts local Wayne Hurst said: “Real shame that, was always the place where everyone respected and went for help and support a few years ago. Hope they catch them.”
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