VANDALS have once again destroyed property at Alloa Golf Club, stealing a number of flag poles in the process.

At some point between 7am on Sunday, October 30, and 7am on Friday November 4, the Sauchie club was targeted.

A quantity of hole pins were stolen while numerous distance markers were said to have been "ripped from the course".

Police also said several rakes were broken, describing the acts as "mindless".
However, it is not the first time the golf club has been targeted recently.

In June, the Advertiser reported that there had been several instances of vandalism this year.

More than 50 bunker rakes were damaged, while the top half of a pop-up irrigator at the 17th hole was snapped off.

Many of the items destroyed had been bought to celebrate the club's 125th anniversary.

Head greenkeeper John Aitken told the Advertiser that vandalism has become a daily concern for staff.

He said: "It's almost expected now. We check the course every day and I'm really expecting to hear this has been stolen or that has been broken.

"It's not ideal; there can be quite a large expense in replacing these items, and it all adds up in the end.

"The last week has been quite bad, but it's strange time of year for this kind of thing. There's no school holidays and it's cold and dark at night.

"And what we're worried about now is any escalation. Today it's flag poles and tee markers, but we don't want it getting any worse.

"Keeping the course in good condition can be hard enough without any serious vandalism."

Those with any information regarding the vandalism at the golf course are asked to contact police in Alloa on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 should they wish to remain anonymous.