Staff at a playing field have been left gutted after vandals broke in and destroyed a football pitch used by youngsters.

Groundstaff at Shefford Saints Football Club, based in Purcell Way, were shocked to find the football pitch had been wrecked by vandals who forced their way onto the ground in their cars on Saturday, January 27 and Sunday, January 28.

Andy Hall, club secretary, said: "In the morning when the groundsman turned up, the pitch was completely wrecked.

"The fence was broken down and there were tyre marks all over the grass.

"Unfortunately we don't have a big fund to put a strong fence in, but it's such a great shame when all the hard work of so many youngsters and staff who work voluntarily is spoilt by vandals."

The football club is represented by under 18-teams, who play regularly in the local leagues.

For the full story see the February 5 edition of the Biggleswade Chronicle.