Sports clubs in Devon and Cornwall urged to act after break-ins
Two football clubs targeted with high-value machinery stolen
Sports clubs across Devon and Cornwall are being encouraged to heighten security following two recent break-ins that resulted in the theft of expensive machinery.
Ogwell Football Club was targeted between 5pm on Friday 12th December and 9am on Saturday 13th December, where thieves forced entry into a storage area.
An orange 2024 Kubota ride-on lawn mower and trailer worth £30,000 were stolen from the premises.
Just hours later, Bude Town Football Club fell victim overnight into Saturday 13th December. During the break-in, a lock-up was accessed, and a New Holland Boomer 25 Compact tractor—valued at £16,500—was stolen. The stolen tractor has the serial number LSMB25CRALLA10113 and registration number WJ70 UPB.
Precautions urged for sports clubs
PC Neil Sommerfeld warned that these burglaries form part of a wider issue affecting clubs in Devon and Cornwall, saying:
“Sports clubs are a focal point of their local communities and often rely on the hard work of volunteers to survive.
“Targeting sports clubs shows no regard for the players, volunteers, supporters and coaches at these clubs.
“We are asking clubs to ensure storage areas are secured and monitored. We will continue to investigate any such offences reported to us.”