Bristol City to assist in graffiti clean-up at Rovers' ground
Thursday 24 December 2015 14:09, UK
Bristol City have embraced the season of goodwill after they arranged for an expert in graffiti removal to clean up vandalism carried out on rivals Bristol Rovers' ground.
The gates at the League Two club's Memorial Stadium were desecrated in graffiti, branding the message "Merry Xmas from C.S.F" and "BS3 BCFC".
The Robins, whose Ashton Gate home is five miles away from the Memorial Stadium, have said they will repair the damage as soon as possible.
"We have been heartened by the support shown by Bristol City Football Club," Bristol Rovers said in a statement on their website on Thursday.
"The Ashton Gate club have confirmed that one of their contractors will be removing the offending graffiti this afternoon."
An earlier statement from City's chief executive Doug Harman read: "Bristol City Football Club are appalled to hear a minority of so-called City supporters have desecrated the Memorial Gates.
"We join Bristol Rovers Football Club and the wider Bristol sporting community in condemning this action.
"Anyone found guilty of carrying out this mindless act of vandalism will face a lifetime ban from Ashton Gate.
"In the spirit of Christmas, we are working with Rovers to ensure that the graffiti is removed as soon as possible."
Vice-chairman Jon Lansdown added on Twitter: "Disgusting, not in our name, not in any name. Will be banned if caught and turn out to be supporters."
Rovers, who are enjoying their first season back in the Football League, have said their rivals' name has been "dragged through the mud" by the vandalism.
A statement read: "It's disappointing to report that The Memorial Gates, a tribute to the fallen of two World Wars and some of the property outside of the gates was vandalised last night by people purporting to be Bristol City supporters.
"We are certain that all true followers of Bristol football will be both shocked and disgusted at this mindful [sic] act of vandalism.
"It's disappointing that the good name of the majority of Bristol City supporters has been dragged through the mud by a mindless minority.
"The matter has been reported to the police and if anyone knows any of the people involved in this disgraceful incident, we respectfully ask you to report the matter to them as soon as possible."
