Chairman anger over continued vandalism at Great Dunmow Cricket Club

The chairman of Great Dunmow Cricket Club says he “cannot describe his anger” over four separate incidents of vandalism which have occurred at the club’s ground since the middle of October.

Matthew Gibson, who is a deputy headteacher at Thomas Gainsborough School in Suffolk, said there has been damage caused to the pavilion, with windows smashed, and forced entry obtained to a shed and the newly built scorebox.

Graffiti has also been scrawled on benches that are dedicated to the memory of former club members.

Mr Gibson said: “I cannot describe just how cross I am about all of this. The costs in repairs and improving security at the club will run into hundreds of pounds.

“The club provides coaching to more than 100 members during the summer, and this damage is taking funds away from more positive and constructive projects that we had planned.

“Perhaps the biggest surprise is that two of these incidents happened in broad daylight, and the police have said they are stepping up patrols in the area. Club members have also been popping down periodically to keep an eye out.

“We would be delighted to hear from anyone who can shed light on the matter and put an end to this mindless vandalism.”

Anyone with information about the incidents can contact police on 101.