Rugby club 'heartbroken' by 'mindless' break in

A volunteer-led rugby club said it was "heartbroken" following a break-in which caused "extensive damage" to the premises.

Bosses at Coalville Rugby Club, in Hall Lane, Whitwick, said the club was broken into overnight on 17 July and its till and stock was also stolen.

An online fundraising page has raised more than £2,500, which the club said would "enable us to move on from this horrible event".

Leicestershire Police confirmed it was investigating a burglary and inquiries were ongoing.

The club, which is funded by sponsorship, offers grassroots rugby to more than 300 men, women and children. The facility is also used by schools and sports clubs for sporting events.

Bosses said volunteers were "devastated" to see the damage caused at the club.

They said drinks were smashed inside and outside the clubhouse, with broken glass left on the pitch.

Beer pumps were emptied and ripped off the bar causing "extensive damage".

"Replacing the stock and replacing stolen and broken items will come at a huge cost to us, money that we unfortunately don't have," they said.

"These mindless acts have a huge impact as we are a community club."

The club said a crowdfunding page was set up to repair some of the damage, which has been estimated to cost up to £3,000.

Club treasurer, Chris Simpson, thanked people for their "generous offers of help and kind donations".

"We would very much like to thank our volunteers, the local community and the wider rugby community for all their support during this time, it has been very overwhelming.

"The community sure can pull together in times of need, of which we are eternally grateful."

The club added it was also "amazed" with local businesses offering its services for free including upgrading its security system.

Leicestershire Police said the burglary was reported just before 06:15 BST on 18 July.

A force spokesperson said: "Inquiries are ongoing and if anyone has any information they are asked to contact 101."

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