A community facility in Coupar Angus was defaced by Nazi graffiti just before it was officially opened by local MSP John Swinney.
Police recorded a number of crudely spray-painted swastika signs on the walls around the Strathmore Community Hub, believed to have happened just before the refurbished medical centre now put to community use had the Deputy First Minister cut the ribbon on October 8.
The wall of the Hub building was marked together with two other buildings close by with the same black spray.
Police put out an appeal to catch those responsible.
It read: “Between Saturday, October 1 and Tuesday, October 4, a swastika was spray painted on Strathmore Community Hub, Trades Lane, Coupar Angus.
“Anyone with information for officers should give the reference CR/79376/22.”
Graeme Dawson, manager of Strathmore Community Hub, told the PA the damage was quickly dealt with.
He said: “One of our users spotted it first thing in the morning and told me.
“It did look like the work of bored youngsters, but obviously if we get any more of the same, that might indicate something else.
“The Council’s Community Safety Team got it cleaned off very quickly – they were great, so thanks to them. It wasn’t a big deal and we are moving on.”
Councillor for the Strathmore Ward, Hugh Anderson, called the vandalism “disgusting behaviour” and he went on to add: “I hope someone will quickly report to the police who was responsible.”
Fellow Strathmore councillor Jack Welch said: “It was bitterly disappointing to hear that this newly-opened community building has been defaced with this particularly offensive graffiti.
“I understand the police are investigating and I hope suitable action is taken against those involved in due course.
“The Strathmore Community Hub is a fantastic new local facility recently opened by the Deputy First Minister of Scotland and local MSP John Swinney and is well supported.”
Don't miss the latest news from around Scotland and beyond - Sign up to our daily newsletter here.
