CRICKETERS are appealing for help following a series of vandal attacks and thefts.

The latest in a catalogue of incidents at Yarm Cricket Club's Leven Road ground saw a large section of practice nets cut away and stolen.

Since the end of last season the score box has been set on fire, the pitch dug up in about 40 places, pavilion windows have been broken and protective covers for the square damaged. Previously, all the ground's grass cutting equipment, worth about £14,000, was stolen.

Club chairman Tim Flavell said: "This club, like many others, is struggling financially, and having to repair and replace damaged and stolen equipment is a constant drain on our limited resources.

"With sponsorship and the odd legacy we just about manage to keep our heads above water, but only just.

"It's so frustrating when we've got all our resources targeting repairs instead of improvements."

Mr Flavell said he believed the netting had been stolen for a strawberry patch or similar garden use.

He added: "What sort of mentality is it when someone does that just to satisfy their own requirements."

He said police had recently stepped up patrols in the area, but called on local residents to help by reporting anyone acting suspiciously at the ground either to the police or the club immediately.

To contact the cricket club telephone 01642 780106 or 678808.