DIY team rebuild after vandals attack

The East Renfrewshire Community Health and Care Partnership (CHCP)-run centre caters to 40 East Ren residents with learning disabilities.

Following a spate of vandalism, the centre has brought in a time-served joiner to repair the damage caused by multiple attacks — and the centre’s own DIYers are learning how to replace broken fencing and restore outdoor equipment.

The handy team has also set to work improving the garden, by adding a host of new features using their new-found skills.

The group has now added shelving, a bench and bird boxes, as well as sanding and repainting wood exposed to the elements.

Their latest venture involves building frames for the garden’s raised garden beds, so that everyone using the centre can access them easily.

Keen DIY fan Stuart Currie said: “I like to use the saw, and enjoy doing the painting and varnishing.”

Inspector Alan Dickson, of Giffnock police office, confirmed that there have been multiple incidents of vandalism, and asked anyone who notices anti-social behaviour around the resource centre — on Robslee Drive — to get in touch.

He told The Extra: “It’s great to see local people getting into DIY and fixing the place back up themselves.

“But we’re keen to put an end to antisocial behaviour like this, at Thornliebank Resource Centre and anywhere else in East Renfrewshire.

“We’re appealing for information from anyone who has noticed antisocial behaviour around the centre — please don’t hestitate to call us if you see anything suspicious.”

Giffnock police station can be reached on 532 5700, or on the non-emergency number 101.

nIs vandalism a problem where you are? Get in touch by emailing Gillian (address above) or find us on Facebook (/ExtraSouthside) and Twitter (@ExtraSouthside).