HUNWICK Cricket Club may have to close its doors after being targeted in a spate of vandalism.

The club, in Roughlea Lane, which was reformed in 1975, has been attacked by vandals three times this year.

The first attack took place in July, when 12 perspex windows on the club's pavilion, dressing room and lounge areas were smashed with paving stones.

The windows were boarded up for more than two months and were fixed last week. A further attack took place last Friday evening, in which vandals broke another seven windows, costing the club £500 to replace.

Vandals broke into the pavilion again between Sunday and Monday evening this week, stealing cricket equipment, including bats and stumps.

Nobody was inside the building during any of the attacks.

The cricket club pavilion has a dressing room, a tea room, a lounge and toilet facilities, which are used by members during weekend matches.

John Pratt, club secretary, said the club may have to fold, as members simply cannot afford to keep replacing vandalised areas.

"We may have to pack the club in because of these mindless individuals. The money we have spent replacing the damage comes straight from members' pockets and it is just not fair and can't keep going on.

"The windows we use are perspex so they cost more than glass windows. It is disgusting that a popular cricket team may have to end because of this."

Paul Alderson, who has been a member of the cricket club since 1978, said: "It's bad news for the club that we are open to further attacks. All of the members are very unhappy and we hope whoever is responsible stops."

PC Andy Reeves, of Crook police, said: "It is thought that a number of youths are using the cricket ground as a meeting area.

"This is an area where a number of local people walk their dogs and we are currently seeking witnesses to each attack."

Witnesses are asked to contact Durham Police, on 0845-60-60-365, or Crime Stoppers, on 0800-555 111.