A GROUP has been caught on CCTV cameras breaking off barriers outside a Basingstoke community centre causing thousands of pounds worth of damage.

Hatch Warren Community Centre has released images from its CCTV cameras showing the group causing damage outside including to railings, brickwork and a disabled access ramp, but said police are unable to do anything because the footage is not clear.

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The centre has now launched a fundraising appeal to upgrade its CCTV cameras to capture accurate facial images and protect the building from being damaged again.

Nick Elms, chairman of Hatch Warren Community Centre, said groups had come to the centre twice in recent months to cause damage.

The most recent occasion was on Sunday, January 30 when a group were there from 8.50pm to 11.20pm.

Nick said: “On the Sunday they caused damage to the centre smashing up the barriers and they threw things at electric boxes. They were there for a few hours and three of them came back to throw a barrier in a hedge and they damaged brickwork. They have gone out of their way to smash it up. It’s just mindless vandalism.”

He added: “They came back and pulled the barrier out completely and then spent 20 minutes smashing up and yanking off the other one. Then they deliberately came back just to take it off and throw it in the bushes.”

Nick said the damage has cost more than £5,000 to repair on top of the money needed to install better cameras.

“I reckon it will cost £10k in total. We need better CCTV so it stands up in court,” he said, adding: “I’d say to parents to be aware of the impact that these young adults are having on the community.”

Hampshire Constabulary said it was made aware of a report of criminal damage to Hatch Warren Community Centre.

A statement added: “Between 8.50pm and 11.20pm on Sunday 30 January, a group of people damaged railings, brickwork, and the disabled access ramp to the building.

“Officers have spoken with staff at the centre and anyone with information is asked to contact 101 quoting 44220047070.”

To donate to the appeal, which has already raised more than £400 in one day click here.

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