FOOTBALLERS had cars stolen and broken into as they played a Sunday league match.

Scots Grey FC teammates discovered the thefts after their clash with Simms Metal at Colwick Country Park last weekend.

A car and a van were stolen, six cars broken into and kit bags containing valuables taken.

A stunned Scots Grey player said: "It was raining so we left all our stuff in our cars with the keys.

"It is sickening."

The Notts Sunday League match was played between 10.45am and 12.15pm. A white Citroen Berlingo van, which contained the owner's work tools and golf clubs, and another player's black Volkswagen Golf were stolen. Six other vehicles were targeted and kit bags, cash and other items taken.

The upset Scots Grey player, who did not want to be named, added: "We paid about £40 for the pitch and there was no protection for cars – we didn't realise that.

"Some of the other teams must have played there before because they took their kits to the pitch.

"As it was raining we put ours in the boots of our cars."

He said thieves must have watched his teammates storing kit bags and valuables as they were the only team targeted.

PC Brian Dacunha said: "In an effort to track these offenders I would ask any walkers or motorists who were in and around Colwick Hall on Sunday morning to cast their minds back and see if they can remember anyone acting suspiciously – and any vehicles associated with those individuals.

"In particular I would like to talk to anyone who has information about the two occupants of a white van which was seen in the area.

"If anyone thinks they have information regarding the offenders they should contact the police immediately."

Nottingham City Council owns the football pitches.

A spokesperson said: "We are aware of an incident and we're working with the police."

In December the Post reported on a series of raids at football club grounds including Bilborough Pelican FC's ground in Lenton Lane.

Anyone with information on the latest thefts should call Notts Police on 0115 967 0999 and ask to speak to PC 2744 Brian Dacunha on ext 6754, or ring Crimestoppers 0800 555111.

tanya.holden@nottinghameveningpost.co.uk