Northern Ireland Football Kit Stolen

A number of new Northern Ireland football shirts and shorts were stolen on Tuesday from the Irish Football Association’s headquarters.

The break-in at the IFA’s Windsor Park headquarters was the second incident within a week.

The IFA’s Head of Marketing and Communications, Geoff Wilson, said that the theft would have a serious affect on the much-needed revenue, which is generated through the sale of the football kits.

Mr Wilson said: “A percentage of this money is what keeps our grassroots programmes going and our youth and international teams running, because when supporters buy directly from us a percentage of the money is reinvested into the various areas.”

Speaking after the break-in on Tuesday night, Mr Wilson also said: “In response to the break-ins the security measures will be stepped up – something which is obviously an extra cost to the Association.”

Mr Wilson also pleaded for anyone that is offered Northern Ireland merchandise in suspicious circumstances to contact the police or the IFA.

(SB/SP)