A SWASTIKA and obscene symbols were carved into the grass of a bowling green over Christmas.

Police have launched an investigation following reports of youths causing criminal damage to the bowling green at Ribblesdale Wanderers Cricket and Bowling Club near Ribblesdale Avenue, Clitheroe.

Drawings and graffiti were daubed onto the grass, including a swastika symbol.

The area was also left a ‘complete tip’ after 30 empty beer cans and drug paraphernalia were discarded there, a police spokesman said.

Mark Brown, chairman of Ribblesdale Wanderers Cricket Club, said: “We have a problem every night of the week at the moment.

“The gates to the club are locked in the winter but people still go on there taking drugs and drinking alcohol on the green.

“We are constantly ringing 101, and a police officer went up three times on Tuesday to shift people who shouldn’t be there. There is no damage to the building but the bowling green was left in a state.

“We spent a couple of thousand pounds maintaining the green and this year around £20,000 was spent on the disabled toilets and kitchen area. It makes you think whether it was worth it.

“We have had had this problem ever since new houses came to Clitheroe. It seems to be attracting youths to the cricket club.”

Cllr Ian Brown, who represents the area, said: “It’s absolutely disgusting and disgraceful that anyone should do this.

“Parents have a responsibility and need to think about where their kids are.

“To be putting these sort of symbols anywhere is completely unacceptable. I hope the police find them.”

Anyone with information can contact PCSO 7234 Kearns-Turner at Clitheroe Police Station on 101, log number LC-2017-0102-0480.