A Kent cricket club is struggling for survival following another set back.

Yalding club has suffered many problems over recent years, including flood damage and vandalism.

But the latest problem to befall the club is a burglary, which took place on Saturday evening.

The incident is believed to have happened between 6.30pm on Saturday and 11.45am on Tuesday.

One of the items stolen was a mower, which is essential for maintenance of the grounds.

This means that young players may not be able to enjoy their passion, as the land cannot be prepared for play.

Thieves broke into a secure container at the 200-year-old club's The Kintons playing field.

The club has been surviving thanks to contributions from local residents and organisations, with many residents volunteering to prepare the grounds for matches.

Jonathan Fenn, the club's treasurer, said: "It is really a terrible blow for everyone involved in the club.

"We are a small club that struggles financially anyway, so to have to try and replace the stolen equipment is a huge challenge.

"This loss will not be covered by our insurance and so represents a crippling blow for the club."

Martin Tripp runs the junior section of Yalding Cricket Club, and was sad to hear the news.

"We regularly get upwards of 50 youngsters to the ground on a Saturday morning and have been moving towards building a really promising future for the club.

"However, without this vital equipment we will struggle to secure the facilities for these youngsters to play," he said.

Kent Police is investigating this incident. No suspects have yet been identified.