MINDLESS vandals have run riot at one of the district’s historic cricket clubs – ransacking the clubhouse and stealing sports equipment.

The offenders broke into the pavilion at Newbrough Cricket Club, before using a cricket bat and stump to cause extensive damage.

They smashed wall panels, lights, ventilation equipment and kitchen appliances during a crime spree which took place between 4pm on Sunday September 10, and 5pm the following day.

Geoff Nevin, who played for cricket for Newbrough for more than 30 years, said the incident had rocked the local community.

He added: “It’s terrible and it’s very sad. This ground has always been part of the community.

“There is no need for such mindless vandalism, and we can’t believe that somebody would do this.”

Newbrough Cricket Club were a dominant force in the 1960s and 70s, winning seven consecutive West Tyne League titles. The pavilion was rebuilt after the turn of the Millennium, but the team dropped out of the league in 2009.

The ground has continued to be used for friendly matches and charity events.

Damage of up to £1,000 was caused. But Mr Nevin said the pavilion was covered by insurance, and stressed there was a determination within the community to refurbish it.

Coun. Michael Gibson, chairman of Newbrough Parish Council, said: “At our annual parish meeting in May, a group of youngsters expressed an interest in using the facilities for junior cricket next year. We all want to make this happen.”

On Wednesday, a police spokeswoman said three teenage boys had been spoken to in connection with the vandalism, and would assist in the clear-up of the building.

l Public toilets in Prudhoe which opened only four weeks ago following a £15,000 refurbishment have been damaged by vandals.

On Monday, council workers discovered damage to the toilets at Road Ends, including a door which had been ripped off, damage to a toilet seat and broken beer bottles scattered over the floor. The toilets were re-opened later this week.