Cricket chiefs have hit out at claims their club is beset by racism.
Bosses at Prestwick have been stunned by allegations that vile slurs are a long-running “stain” on their club.
It follows three members being banned for using shocking terms towards club president Shazhad Rafiq.
But weekend reports, citing a whistleblower at the Henry Thow Oval, claimed the issue has dogged the club for a “long time”.
And that has led to a robust response from furious bosses who are determined to defend the proud reputation of members.
The Ayrshire Post understands Mr Rafiq was the victim of racist language at the club’s AGM in November.
Witnesses who overheard him being called a “P*** b******” subsequently reported the matter to committee members.
Club chiefs have told how they swiftly dealt with the matter, issuing eight-month bans to those involved.
And they insist reports which have now surfaced – claiming the club has inherent issues stretching back years – are well wide of the mark.
A Prestwick spokesman told the Ayrshire Post: “A complaint was submitted to the club’s committee regarding the use of racist language.
“Following a full investigation and disciplinary process with the individuals concerned, and taking account of the context, and remorse shown, the individuals were issued with an eight-month ban.
“But the allegations that have since been made around racism being a stain on this club for some time are completely unfounded and require to be addressed.
“Until now, we have never once had an incident or complaint regarding any form of discrimination.
“We are a club with a long and proud history of employing overseas players, which stretches back to the early 1970s.
“Some of them have enjoyed the best years of their cricketing lives at the Henry Thow Oval and have left here enriched for their experiences.”
The spokesman added: “Team members and opposing players from all over the world regard Prestwick as a highly-respected club.
“We will continue in the only vein we know how – and that is to be an all-inclusive community club.”
It comes as bosses at Cricket Scotland begin a review into claims of racism within the sport.
Their spokesman said: “Cricket Scotland believes that all sport should offer a safe and welcoming environment for anyone wishing to take part and has a zero tolerance policy on any form of discrimination or abuse.”
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