The community is calling for increased police patrols after a clubhouse was targeted by "mindless thieves". 

Volunteers have said they are struggling after the West Essex Sports Club at Rolls Park, off Hickman Avenue in Highams Park, was broken into on Sunday night (April 12).  

The club, founded in 1921, has more than 200 members involved with the several cricket and football teams for adults and children. 

Thieves smashed their way through a metal grill in the bar area and broke several padlocked doors after gaining entry by removing a metal shield on the outside of the clubhouse and climbing through a small window. 

They then smashed the lock on a double-door to use as an escape route after they took £400 worth of alcohol recently purchased for a British Heart Foundation charity event being held this Saturday. 

The thieves also stole 30 bottles of spirits, £300 cash and a 40-inch flat screen television.     

The clubhouse alarm pad was disconnected and ripped off the wall.

The break-in was not discovered until the following morning when the owner of the nearby E4 Health and Fitness Club discovered the alarm shell discarded on a tennis court. 

Chairman, Simon Roberson, said: "I'm disgusted.

“We are a community sports club that literally lives hand to mouth every week just so that we can provide sport at the cheapest possible price. 

"These mindless thieves have caused thousands of pounds worth of damage. 

"Anything locked was smashed open, even a cupboard containing teabags in the kitchen was ripped off the hinges and cardboard boxes were torn open. 

"They were definitely in here for some time.

"Now that the bushes have been cut back, which were being used as a shield to carry out drug dealing, police drive around the car park once and leave, rather than stopping and doing a sweep of the area."

Treasurer of the adult football club, Jo Kent, lives close to the clubhouse in Ropers Avenue and described the area as "secluded and unsecure". 

She added: "This is a bit of dodgy area and we receive no help from the council or the police. 

"I'm worried they will come back and we cannot afford for this to happen.  

"The police should be doing more around here.

“A lot more patrols are needed to keep residents, our club and the businesses safe".

Waltham Forest police has been contacted for a comment. 

East London and West Essex Guardian Series:

The West Essex Sports Club at Rolls Park is beside an alleyway that leads through to Aldriche Way estate.