A recent spate of vandalism at a village sports club has left angry officials facing a bill of almost £2,000.

The latest incident over the weekend saw the football goals in Chartham, near Canterbury, attacked, ripped from the ground, broken and hurled into hedges.

The damage took place on a pitch used by the club's under-11s and under-12s sides, meaning matches cannot be played until they are replaced.

It was the third incident of its kind in as many weeks.

Club secretary Darren Daughters says the ongoing vandalism is frustrating for the 300 youngsters who use the facilities.

"After lockdown, so many children were so happy to be able to get back to playing the sport they love and seeing their friends," he said

"But now this is the third time in three weeks that our goals have been knocked down and broken.

"We've been able to repair them before but, unfortunately, these are beyond that and will need replacing.

"This act of mindless vandalism now means we've had to postpone our under-11 and under-12 age groups home matches until new goals can be purchased at huge cost.

"It’s just inconceivable that this is how some people have their fun, and it's depressing for the club, which is run by volunteers for our young people."

Mr Daughters says the area targeted by vandals is not covered by CCTV and the club sees no point in reporting the damage to police.

But it has sparked outrage from parents and supporters of the club.

"What senseless vandalism", wrote Gladys Garwood on Facebook, while Nigel Sladden branded the vandals "scum".

Many have been quick to donate to a GoFundMe appeal launched to cover the cost of the replacement goals.

"People have been very generous, and we even got a £300 donation from Robson & Co solicitors when they read about it," said Mr Daughters.

The appeal has reached almost of £3,000.

In a separate issue facing the club, Mr Daughters has condemned irresponsible dog owners who have been letting their pets foul on the pitches.

"I cleared up more than a dozen lots of it recently," he said.

"But why should we have to pick up other people's dogs mess? What if a young kid slides in it? This is an anti-social thing to do and we are asking the public to please respect their community by clearing up after dogs.

"We are a community club - please help us by respecting our property and public spaces."

To support the fundraising appeal, search 'Chartham Sports Club goal fund' on at gofundme.com