A football club is appealing for information after vandals targeted one of their youth players with an offensive slogan.

The graffiti, which has been censored for the purposes of this story, was found daubed on the Pilgrims FC sign in Ashford yesterday.

The sign was also left badly damaged, with dents and holes ripped into the badge and name.

Members of the club, which plays on the Great Chart playing fields, have been badly affected by the incident.

A spokesman said: "It could have happened any time from Wednesday through to Thursday morning, which was when it was discovered.

"What was said was absolutely disgusting and we are taking it very, very seriously.

"We've had contact with police and are doing all we can to find out who is behind the vandalism."

"What was said was absolutely disgusting..."

A parent at the club, which has 13 teams from under-seven to adult levels, has set up a fundraiser to replace the sign.

They said: "Thank you in advance to everyone who contributes to this cause that means so much to the club, parents, players, and all youngsters that have benefited from the valuable ethos of the club.

"It is very very sad, we try as hard as we can to provide the best environment and family feeling we can within the club.

"All members, through subscription fees and sponsors invest into the club so that the club can provide the best kit, equipment and ground for all our players and supporters.

"It is made so hard with things like this as it is just more money being spent, that didn’t need to be spent!"

If you would like to donate to the fundraiser, click here.

The sign has since been removed from the playing fields.

A police spokesman said: "Kent Police was contacted at 4pm on Thursday to a report that a sign had been vandalised at the Great Chart playing fields in Ashford.

"The vandalism is believed to have taken place between Tuesday 18 February and Thursday 20 February."

Anyone with any information is asked to call 01843 222289, quoting reference 46/32727/20.

You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or at Crimestoppers-uk.org

To get the latest updates in ongoing cases, police appeals and criminals put behind bars, click here.

Read more: All the latest news from Ashford