Newton Storm community Rugby League club are devastated as a building, recently refurbished as part of their 'Engage with your Club' community event, has been broken into with hundreds of pounds worth of equipment stolen.

The target of the attack was originally a disused out-building which was transformed over the summer by Storm volunteers who donated hundreds of hours of their time to help convert it into a usable facility. The aim was to provide a facility that could raise valuable funds to help keep the club running.

The building served tea, coffee and food to players and spectators on match days and was fitted out with hundreds of pounds worth of catering equipment, including hot plates, fryers and chafers. The equipment, donated by local companies, together with a large quantity of frozen food, was stolen during what the club believe was a planned attack.

A club official said: "It's disgusting to see a community rugby league club targeted in this way. We are a community club which aims to coach Rugby League, but more importantly, life skills such as team work, respect and discipline. We keep over 200 local children and young adults healthy, fit and off the streets, but it would appear, even we aren’t immune to such appalling acts of theft.

"If anyone has any information that will lead to recovery of any items taken, please let us know via email or connect to the club via twitter @NewtonStormARL

"Also, if any person or organisation would be able to donate used catering equipment to replace that stolen, again this would be very much appreciated."

Malcolm Hankey
Secretary
Newton Storm ARLFC

Email: m.hankey@sky.com