Floodlights worth £1,170 have been stolen from a Sheerness sports field.

Intruders forced their way into the pavilion at the New Road Playing Field some time between February 13 and 23.

They stole two portable floodlights worth £1,110 belonging to Swale council and two halogen lights worth £60 belonging to the New Road Football Club, which is based at the playing field.

Club secretary Daren Harrison said the theft was a major blow for the club, which trains almost 200 Sheppey youngsters every week.

“We feel very frustrated and let down that someone could actually do that, knowing full well that the lights are used for the children who play football here,” he said.

“The lights’ chargers and batteries were also taken, and the thieves used a bag we use to store footballs in to carry it all away.”

Swale council’s greenspaces officer Graeme Tuff said: “We are very sad that someone has seen fit to steal the floodlights. It’s not just the fact that council property has been taken that saddens us, it’s the knock-on effects for the community.

“People look forward to taking part in activities every week and need this equipment for their community events. It’s not just taking away valuable equipment, it’s preventing people from getting together and enjoying a common interest and making use of Swale’s sporting facilities.”

Police Community Support Officer Terry Hanlon urged anyone who has information about the theft to come forward.

“These lights are quite unusual so if you have been offered them for sale, or if you saw the break-in take place, please contact us so we can catch the culprits and return the lights to their rightful home.”

• Anyone with information about the theft is asked to phone Sittingbourne Police Station on 01795 419182 or Kent Crimestoppers in confidence on 0800 555111 quoting crime number CY/3131/11.