Thieves raided a football club and stole charity donations after snatching personal effects from a cemetery.

A message issued by Chatham FC announced the break-in at its ground in Bourneville Avenue last night. It warned visitors to be vigilant and make sure vehicles are locked.

The council-owned cemetery in nearby Maidstone Road was also targeted, the club added.

The charity money has now been re-donated while a clean-up is under way.

Club staff have handed over CCTV footage to police, and forensic officers have been on the scene.

The Chats, as they are nicknamed, are regular supporters of local charities including Strood-based Step and Learn which helps children with cerebral palsy.

It has also raised money for Second Chance Medway, set up to help the homeless and victims of domestic violence, and hosted celebrity matches at the Bauvill Stadium.

A police spokesman told KentOnline: “We were called at 7.33am on Thursday, September 5 to a report that an office building within Chatham Cemetery, Maidstone Road, had been broken into overnight.

“Some personal belongings were reported to have been stolen. Inquiries are ongoing.

“Kent Police was called at 7.56am on Thursday, September 5 to a report that Chatham Football Club in Bournville Road had been burgled.

“Money was reported to have been stolen along with two sets of vehicle keys. Inquiries are ongoing.”

A Medway Council spokesperson said: “A building inside Chatham Cemetery was broken into on Wednesday, September 4, and this has been reported to Kent Police.”

Chatham Cemetery is maintained by Medway Council’s contractors, Norse. It is understood no equipment is kept in the building, and it is used as a break room for staff.