FORMER Darlington FC players have appealed for help in catching a thief who ransacked their dressing room.

Darlington old boys David Speedie and Kevan Smith said they were prepared to offer a small reward.

The pair were among a team of former Quakers players who were taking part in a fundraising football match at Darlington Railway Athletic ground on Brinkburn Road on Sunday.

Around £7,500 worth of personal items were stolen from a dressing room by a suspected conman who had earlier chatted to players and helped carry footballs and water bottles.

Among the items that were taken was a £1,000 Gucci watch owned by Kevan Smith.

It has a grey-slated face with 12 diamonds and a silver and gold bracelet .

Mr Smith said: "We were trying to do a service for the club and then this person did this. It is totally out of order."

A black watch belonging to David Speedie, worth £2,000 and made by a German firm, was also stolen along with various items of jewellery and money.

Contact Darlington police on (01325) 467681 or Crimestoppers 0800 555 111.