MEMBERS of an east Durham scout group have been left devastated after raiders broke into their hut and made off with thousands of pounds worth of equipment.

Burglars struck at the base of the 1st Peterlee Scout Group in Lowhills Road, in the Acre Rigg area of Peterlee between Friday (February 6) and Monday (February 9).

Scout leader Andrew Cowey said: “We were away at camp over the weekend.

“When our group scout leader Sharon Major went to open up for Beaver Scouts on Monday we discovered we had been broken into.

“The thieves have stolen over 10 complete archery sets, bows for the younger scouts, arrows, lots of craft materials, some of our lightweight tents, canvas tents and large group tents.

“They also took some cash that was in the building, kitchen equipment and made a huge mess in the process.

“The archery equipment is often used by all the groups in the district and now this cannot happen.”

Mr Cowey said the burglars had damaged out roof in three places to gain access and removed bolts from one side of the roof.

He added: “We had just last year got the roof re-insulated and now that is also damaged.”

A group of parents and scouts spend last night (Tuesday) to clear the mess.

Mr Cowey said " It was soul destroying to see all the scouts' equipment was gone.

“This is equipment which we work really hard to fundraise for."

The 1st Peterlee Scout Group was started in 1954 and has over 70 youth members aged between six and 18 and a leader and adult helper team, with members up to the age of 80.

A online appeal has been launched to help replace the stolen items. Visit www.fundrazr.com and search for 1st Peterlee Scout Group.

Anyone with information should contact the Durham Police on 101.