A POPULAR bowls club is facing a bleak future today after thieves stole maintenance equipment worth �10,000.

Officials at Copdock and Washbrook Bowling Club say that if the tools – which included a rotary lawnmower, lawn scarifier, and a heavy duty spiker – are not returned they may be forced to close.

The club’s greenkeeper Tony Coward discovered the break-in on Friday.

“I went up on Friday morning to cut the green and was faced with no equipment,” he said.

Mr Coward noticed the gate was open and initially thought they may have had a mower stolen as they had four years ago.

But to his shock, most of the shed equipment was gone.

“My initial reaction was to go home and sob,” he said.

“We really work hard to fundraise and get money for that equipment, and the club could close if we don’t get it back.”

Suffolk police said the thieves forced their way into the metal container housing the equipment between 9.30pm on Thursday and 10am on Friday.

The outdoor bowling club, situated off the Old London Road in Copdock, is used regularly by almost 40 members.

Without the equipment Mr Coward says they are unable to carry out their autumn renovation after the season closes. The digging and relaying of the green at this time is crucial.

“A lot of the members rely on it and it means the world to them,” said Mr Coward.

“It’s our recreation, and a lovely friendly club, not too competitive.”

Suffolk police are appealing to the public for any information in relation to the theft.

Calls should be made to Pc Sarah Jarrold on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

In the meantime, Mr Coward hopes the conscience of those responsible will get the better of them.

“Have a little thought for what you’ve done to this club, and please return the gear ASAP,” he said.

n Has your club or organisation been affected by crime? Call the newsdesk on 01473 324790 or e-mail starnews@archant.co.uk