A BOROUGH sports club has been targeted by thieves whose actions have caused great distress to its members.

Belhus Cricket Club in North Stifford was subject to a break-in on Tuesday evening during which a lawn mower was stolen from one of its storage containers.

A club statement says: "As a community-focused club run entirely by dedicated volunteers, we work hard to raise funds and provide a safe, supportive environment where young people can develop and enjoy the game of cricket.

"Incidents like this are deeply upsetting and impact the whole club.

"We kindly ask anyone in the local area who may have CCTV footage that could assist in identifying those responsible to please get in touch with us. Additionally, if you are offered a lawn mower for sale under suspicious circumstances, or hear of one being sold for scrap, we would greatly appreciate you letting the club know.

"Your support means a great deal to us, and we thank you for helping protect our community club."

The club can be contacted via its Facebook page.

Alternatively submit a report to Essex Police on their website where you can use an online Live Chat service available Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays) between 10am-9pm. Alternatively, you can report by telephoning 101.

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If you would like to make an anonymous report, you can contact independent charity Crimestoppers on Twitter at @CrimestoppersUK, by visiting their website or by calling 0800 555 111.

Belhus isn't the only local club targeted by thieves. The premises and village ground of Orsett & Thurrock CC have also been vandalised and items of machinery stolen, promoting the club to Thurrock Council, which manages the ground, to improve security.