'Big explosion' Club boss believes ground was deliberately targeted

STAFF and supporters of Bristol Manor Farm Football Club have been left “devastated” and “heartbroken” after an arson attack caused thousands of pounds of damage and put new-season home matches in jeopardy.

- Kim HORTON

Police and fire crews were called to the NL Services Stadium in Sea Mills - also known as The Creek - late on Friday after a car was driven onto the pitch and set alight in one of the goalmouths, “exploding” into flames.

The club said the attack, which happened just hours before a home match was scheduled, had been a major blow on the eve of a new season. A club statement said: “What should have been a joyful home fixture day quickly became one of shock and heartbreak for our entire community.”

The incident, which happened between 11pm and midnight on Friday, came two hours after an earlier vandalism attack on the ground. Two young men and two young women were captured on CCTV spraying graffiti, containing “negative” slogans.

Club chairman Jon Line said the two incidents may be linked and thinks the arson was a deliberate attempt to prevent the Southern League club playing home matches. Saturday's game against Avonmouth had to be switched to the opposition’s ground and Mr Line is concerned The Creek may not be playable for the first home game of the season against Willand Rovers on August 9.