YOUNG footballers have appealed for the return of equipment after thieves ransacked a Scout hut.

Children who play for Shildon Juniors were devastated when coach Doug Grant told them that four goal nets had been stolen from the storage area on the town's Scout field.

Mr Grant said: "These people do not seem to realise that it is the children that suffer.''

He discovered the theft on Sunday morning when he arrived for a training session. Bags of equipment had been strewn around the hut and four nets had been taken.

He said: "We would be very grateful to receive any news of anyone who appears to have acquired any nets recently.

"If whoever took the nets feels guilty, please return them to the field.

"Meanwhile, if anyone could supply or lend any old nets for the time being it would be much appreciated. We were hoping to replace the nets in time for Saturday's matches. If not, once again, it is the children who lose out.''

Mr Grant can be contacted on 07733 226089