OFFICIALS of a Bolton cricket club are offering a reward for information in a bid to catch out a gang of thieves.

They hope the reward will lead to the capture of raiders who have plundered Darcy Lever Cricket Club FOUR times over the last five weeks.

The same gang of thieves are believed to have been responsible for all four break-ins.

Officials estimate that repairs needed to replace property stolen and repair damaged doors now totals more than £1,500. Security at the Hacken Lane clubhouse has now been increased.

The raids have been carried out despite the fact that the club has a sophisticated alarm system linked to the police station.

The latest break-in happened last weekend when thieves forced their way into a storeroom at the club and stole the entire stock of beer.

In previous break-ins the thieves have forced their way into the clubhouse itself - smashing their way through four solid wooden doors - and plundering the gaming machines. Raffle prizes and three large food hampers have been stolen in previous burglaries.

Darcy Lever Cricket Club, which has a membership of more than 500, runs three senior cricket teams in addition to three junior squads and four rounders teams.

Committee member Jackie Walker said: "We have a good fund-raising committee and are trying hard to improve facilities at the club. Each time they break in, it comes as a kick in the teeth for our future ambitions.

Responsible

"We have no doubt that the same thieves are responsible every time. They live locally and after triggering the alarm know how much time they have before our security people arrive at the club."

She added: "We believe people in the area know who is responsible. Our hope is that a reward will lead to their capture."

Anyone with information is asked to Bolton Central CID or Crimestoppers on the free phone number 0800 555 111.

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