Derry City show support for Destined after break-in and arson attack

Vandals broke into the Foyle Road premises which acts as a vital hub for people with learning disabilities and caused extensive damage to the state-of-the-art facilities which has left the local community devastated.

Those responsible broke windows on the front doors of the building and damaged a brand new kitchen in the cafe during the attack which happened in the early hours of Saturday morning.

Derry City boss, Declan Devine said he was 'disgusted' by the recent vandalism on the centre which not only provides activities and programmes for 200 young people and adults with learning disabilities, but also provides vital employment.

The community response to the incident has been significant with over 100 people showing up to help with the clean up in recent days.

Destined have been long-time supporters of the Candy Stripes and Devine said the least the Brandywell club could do was pay a visit, offer help and show their support.

"We are only a reflection of our community, that's all we are," said the City boss. "We aren't on a pedestal, we are the same as anyone who comes from this city.

"Destined got horrendous cards dealt to them at the weekend. We were all disgusted because those people mean a lot to us.

"They come and support us on a weekly basis and we are very grateful for that and if we can give anything back to anyone in our community, that's what our football club has to do, because those people wouldn't be here only for the people who come into the Brandywell on a Friday night.

"We wouldn't have jobs only for them so if there's ever anybody who needs our help and our guidance and our support then that's what we are here for. We are just workers that are very, very fortunate to represent this club."