Alex Totten hits out at those responsible for Dunipace FC pitch fire

Police are still investigating the wilful fire raising which left much of the artificial playing surface charred. The cost of the damage at Westfield Park in Denny is estimated at around £300,000.

Alex said he hoped those responsible are apprehended quickly, adding: “It makes me so angry. There are so many people from young kids right up to the senior team who use that pitch and then this happens.

"I remember when the new surface was laid about five years ago and I brought a Falkirk team to mark the occasion. I was proud to be part of the day. It’s great facilities which are a big part of the community.”

His family involvement with Westfield Park sees son Bruce help Dunipace manager Danny Smith with coaching, while grandson Alexander plays with Dunipace Amateurs and grandson Jake with Dunipace under 20s, with all teams regularly playing on the pitch.

Alex added: “When I was growing up we had respect for our community but sadly that seems not to be the case for some nowadays. It’s a sin what has happened.

"Dunipace were due to have their last home league match on Saturday and then a home cup time on Tuesday. Thankfully other clubs have rallied round to provide support with Saturday’s match at Stenhousemuir and Linlithgow Rose providing their ground for the cup tie. But it’s not the same for the team not to be playing at home. And who knows when they will be able to do that again.”

Meanwhile, police have renewed their appeal for information following the fire.

Inspector Colin Sutherland said: “We are treating the fire as wilful and our enquiries are ongoing. This fire has caused a significant amount of damage and will have a lasting impact on the local community.

“We believe the fire was burning for a time before we were called and I am appealing for anyone who was in the area on Friday, May 19 into Saturday who may have seen anything that could assist us to get in touch.

“Additionally I would appeal to anyone who was driving in the area and who may have dash cam footage which could help to contact us.”Anyone with any information is asked to contact 101 quoting incident 1088 of May 20. Alternatively Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111.