A North Yorkshire community has been praised for restoring its playing fields after vandalism left them unusable.
In 2024, Brompton Recreation Group, near Northallerton, was devastated by a targeted weedkiller attack, causing over £5,000 in damage and halting all football and outdoor activities.
But the local community rallied round and in April a family fun day featuring professional footballers raised over £3,000, fundraising for the recovery of the facilities.
Rishi joined Brompton AFC Juniors for their warm-up ahead of a pre-season friendly against Thirsk Falcons, then took part in a training session with the U16s team before watching the game with parents.
Rishi also visited the group’s newly opened community library, located in the pavilion and funded by the Broadacres Community Fund.
Rishi said: “It’s incredible see what this community has achieved in the face of such adversity. The vandalism could have set them back for years, but instead it brought people together with purpose and pride. The new library, thriving junior teams, and strong local spirit show just how much can be achieved when a community pulls together.”
Barbara Slater, Chair of Brompton Recreation Group, added: “It meant a lot to have Rishi with us today. His ongoing support gives our volunteers and families real encouragement. It is great to be able to invite teams back to Brompton.”
