Sports pitch opening delayed by criminal damage

The opening of an artificial sports pitch, due to be completed in Coventry, has been delayed after equipment at the site was deliberately damaged.

The PlayZone in Jardine Crescent, Tile Hill, was one of six new pitches to be installed with funding from the Football Foundation.

Some time before 23 June "extensive damage" had been caused to the equipment being installed as well as machinery used at the site, West Midlands Police said.

"As a result of the damage, the opening of the new playground has been delayed, meaning its programme of summer activities may not be able to go ahead," the force added.

The pitches are being installed at Edgwick Park, Longford Park, Moat House, Virginia Road and Willenhall Brookstray as well as the Jardine Crescent site.

As well as football, sports supported include cricket, netball and basketball.

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