THE Riverside Club, which is used by community groups in Melksham, has had thousands of pounds worth of damage and numerous items stolen following a break-in. 
In the early hours of Friday 26th July at approximately 2.00am the police were called by residents living nearby the club which is located near the entrance to Waitrose car park, who complained of excessive noise. On arrival, police discovered the Riverside Club had been broken into and youths quickly dispersed from the area.
The doors were forced by the youths before entering and causing thousands of pounds worth of damage by smashing windows and crockery that was kept in the kitchen. They also stole numerous items which belonged to local community groups such as wheelchairs and walking aids. Food was also taken from the fridge, along with two fire extinguishers and two fire blankets.
The club is used by many community groups including elderly groups, Slimming World, dancing groups and many more.
Treasurer for the Riverside Club, Phillip Toop said, “The cost runs into the thousands. It’s absolute mindless hooliganism and vandalism. Apparently there was around 20 youths here, just ransacking the place. They quickly disappeared when police arrived but someone must know something.
“It may only of seemed like a few minutes of fun to the youths, but the impact it has on us and the groups that use the club is massive.
“This is the second break-in we have had after one in 2011 but it is much, much worse this time. I don’t see what they gain by causing such destruction. We had to close the next morning and it’s not fair that some groups missed out on sessions that are valuable to them, just because of these vandals.
“The walking aid was found in the river by local contractors who cut the grass and kindly went in to get it for us, but all the other things are gone, including a wheelchair and fire extinguishers.
“The police are working on the case and have had crime scene investigation to take prints, so hopefully those responsible will be caught.”
If anyone has any information on the break-in at the Riverside Club then they are being urged to contact Wiltshire Police on 101.
