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THE leader of Eastbourne Borough Council has condemned what he described as an ‘outrageous act of mindless vandalism’, after damage was discovered at Devonshire Park ahead of this year’s Lexus Eastbourne Open.
Council staff arrived at the internationally renowned tennis venue early this morning to continue preparations for the prestigious tournament, only to find extensive damage to a number of the courts.
Councillor Stephen Holt said the incident was a shocking act of criminal damage which could have jeopardised preparations for one of the town’s biggest annual sporting events.
He said: “This is an outrageous act of mindless vandalism that shows total disregard for our town, our residents, and the global sporting event we are proud to host each year.
“Devonshire Park is one of Eastbourne’s greatest assets, and the council’s dedicated team have been working tirelessly to prepare the courts for the international tournament. For anyone to deliberately sabotage that work is utterly disgraceful.”
The council has confirmed it is working closely with Sussex Police to investigate the incident, with CCTV footage from the site and surrounding area now being reviewed.
Additional security measures are also being introduced following the damage.
Cllr Holt added: “We will do everything possible to support the police in identifying those responsible. This is criminal damage that could have disrupted a major sporting event.
“However, despite this setback, our brilliant team at Devonshire Park are working hard to ensure the courts are handed over to the LTA in time, ready for the world-class tennis we’re all looking forward to.”
Anyone with information about the incident is being urged to contact Sussex Police, or report information anonymously via Crimestoppers.
