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Gwent Police is looking to speak with three ‘male youths’ following a fire that caused thousands of pounds worth of damage at Risca United FC’s changing rooms.
The fire to the building, on Isaf Road in Pontymister, reportedly started at around 5.30am on Monday September 11.
Simon Berry, first team coach at Risca United, spoke to Caerphilly Observer on the morning of the fire, and described the building – which housed the club’s equipment – as “decimated”.
The building had recently undergone renovation, and was painted in the black and white colours of the club.
After the fire, the club set up a GoFundMe page to help cover some of the costs.
In a statement, Gwent Police said: “Witnesses reported seeing three male youths in the area around the time of the fire who may be able to help with investigations.”
PC Brenna Holt, from Gwent Police, added: “Deliberately setting fires to buildings is mindless, dangerous and could put people’s lives at risk. It is also a criminal offence.
“We appreciate that the building was deliberately damaged in September, but we are appealing for anyone who might have information about it to get in touch with us.”
Mike Hill, South Wales Fire and Rescue Service’s arson reduction team manager, said: “The result of this deliberate act has been felt across the whole community, with the loss of a football team’s changing rooms.
“Deliberately setting fire to a building is not only incredibly dangerous, but these incidents divert attention away from real emergencies, and are a waste of public resources.”
Enquiries are ongoing and anyone with information, including CCTV or dashcam footage, can call 101 or send Gwent Police a direct message on social media, quoting log reference 2300307119.
You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously with details on 0800 555 111.
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