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 to anyone who helped catch the culprit.

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

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

Among the items taken was a distinctive Gucci watch owned by Kevan Smith. Worth around £1,000, it has a grey-slated face with 12 diamonds and a silver bracelet chain with gold pieces through it.

He said: "I have had it for around 20 years and it is of great sentimental value. Gucci do not make these types of watches anymore.

"We will put up a reward if anyone knows anything that can help catch the thief.

"My heart sank when I realised it had been taken. 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.

Anybody who knows anything about the theft or has been offered the stolen goods should contact Darlington police on (01325) 467681 or Crimestoppers 0800 555 111.