AN anti-sectarian charity has voiced its anger and concern after a vandalism attack at a local football club.

Vile anti-Catholic slogans were painted onto doors, signs and windows at Vale of Leithen's Victoria Park ground.

And more than a dozen pro-Rangers phrases were also daubed onto the enclosure and dug-outs.

It is estimated the clean-up will run into several hundred pounds.

But it's the repulsive sectarian slogans which have caused the most anger with some.

Dave Scott, director of Nil By Mouth, tours the country educating schoolchildren about the divisiveness and dangers of sectarian behaviour.

And he finds it hard to believe that it is happening on his doorstep.

Dave told us: "This is utterly moronic behaviour and you wouldn’t need two hands to count the IQ points of those behind it.

"As a Gala Fairydean Rovers fan I’ve been to Victoria Park on numerous occasions and know how hard the club’s committee and volunteers work to keep the Vale going and the last thing they need is having to clean up after mindless acts of vandalism."

Sectarianism in the Borders is rare with minimal convictions when compared to other parts of the country.

And Nil By Mouth hope this attack in Innerleithen will be a isolated incident.

Mr Scott added: "As part of our Kiss Bigotry Goodbye campaign we will contact the club and offer to sponsor a game in the very near future to show that true football supporters love the game and hate this sort of nonsense."

Vale of Leithen's committee have already forked out thousands of pounds to bring their ground up to Lowland League standards.

And they regularly have to carry out clean-ups and repairs following minor vandalism.

But chairman Stuart Robertson admits this is the worst attack he's witnessed.

Mr Robertson said: "This is the worst case of vandalism I've seen in all my years of being involved at the Vale.

"There is paint everywhere and we are going to have to clean it off the best we can before our next game.

"People work so hard at Vale of Leithen yet you get people who come along and undo all the good work."

Police Scotland confirmed an investigation has been launched.

A spokesperson said: "Police in the Borders are investigating following a report of vandalism at a football club in Innerleithen.

"The incident took place between 9am on Friday, February 1 and 9am on Monday, February 4 in the Victoria Park area.

"Inquiries are ongoing and anyone who witnessed any suspicious behaviour in the area over the weekend of February 2 and 3, or has information that can help identify those involved, is asked to contact officers on 101 and quote incident number 0943 of February 4. 

"Alternatively a report can be made to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."