Clubs urged to be on guard after spate of equipment thefts

SPORTS clubs throughout Devon and Cornwall are being urged to be on their guard following a spate of burglaries which has seen expensive machinery stolen from their grounds.

- by STUART JAMES

So far, eight clubs since March 21 have been targeted with machinery such as tractors and grass mowers stolen.

Seven football clubs have been targeted. Torridgeside have had a mower stolen, with Winkleigh (mower), Ottery St Mary (tractor), Padstow (tractor, mowers, and other equipment), Launceston (tractor), St Stephen (tractor) and Crediton United (two tractors) also affected.

Roche Cricket Club has had a mower taken.

All clubs affected so far are insured, but there are concerns their premiums will go up because of the thefts. And with such items being paid for by fundraising and donations from willing volunteers, clubs are struggling to replace them if insurance companies don't pay out.