OFFICIALS at a football club have slammed vandals for targeting their ground before their promotion celebrations.

Paint has been thrown over the main entrance and welcome sign overnight at Hastings United FC’s home at The Continental Pilot Field.

The U’s have secured promotion from the Isthmian League Southeast and will lift the trophy following their game against VCD Athletic Football Club today.

A spokesman said the club was disappointed that the vandals targeted the ground ahead of today’s celebrations.

He said: “It’s disgraceful. Ahead us lifting the trophy today for the first time in 20 years, our staff turn up to this act of vandalism.

“Sometimes the human race really let you down, but today, we celebrate.”

Billy Wood, chairman and chief executive at the club, said the team and the fans will not allow the vandalism to ruin their celebrations.

He said: “Nothing dampens our celebrations. Time to clean up and later we pop.”

Football clubs from across the country have shared messages of solidarity with Hastings United following the vandalism.

Crowborough Athletic FC said: “Sometimes there are no words to describe some people who do things such as this.

“What must go through their minds that make this such a good idea to do.”

A spokesman for Herne Bay FC said: “Utterly disgraceful that this is happening to clubs.

“As we said before, some issues are bigger than football. We are fully behind you Hastings United Football Club.”

Sports journalist Josh Bunting described the vandalism as “absolutely ridiculous”.

He said: “Who would even think of doing that? People need to seriously have a look at themselves and think why.”

Sussex Police said it is investigation the incident. 

A spokesman said: "Police received a report of criminal damage at a property in Elphinstone Road, Hastings, which is understood to have taken place overnight on Friday.

"Officers attended this morning to speak to the owners and identify any viable lines of enquiry.

"Enquiries are at an early stage, but anybody who has any information which could help can contact police online or by calling 101, quoting serial 467 of 16/04."

Hastings United clinched the league title after a 1-1 draw at Faversham on Saturday, April 9.

The team will play in the Isthmian premier next season.

The club are hoping to beat their attendance record at today’s game and are urging people from across Hastings to join in the celebrations.