CRICKET club bosses have warned other sports teams in Chelmsford to beware after thieves broke into their pavilion and stole £120 in cash.

Burglars forced their way into Springfield Cricket Club’s clubhouse in Timsons Lane before taking money left in the till behind the bar.

They also took three charity collection boxes, while an estimated £50 worth of damage was done to the cellar door.

Club officials have been forced to shell out £200 on new locks, £110 on a till and are also considering extra reinforcements for the door.

Tom Lightfoot, pavilion secretary, said: “One thing we have decided to do now is not leave money in the till overnight and we are going to put signs up stating and that our clubhouse is alarmed.

“I have been told a couple of football clubs have been targeted around the city too but with no money being nicked, so I would urge other clubs to do something similar to what we have.

“Overall the cost of the damage and loss of money is not too much of a problem for us, but it is a nuisance to have to take these measures.”

Police officers are investigating the incident on Tuesday February 18, and have appealed for witnesses to come forward.

Call on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.