VANDALS have caused ‘significant damage’ at Wortley Rugby Club after ripping up the field last weekend.

The club were forced to cancel their junior games on Sunday following the damage, which took place during Storm Darragh on Saturday.

Martin Wright, the chair of the junior section, told the Chronicle the vandalism doesn’t just affect the club but the wider community as well.

He said: “It appears that a quad bike was driven on the pitches during wet weather, resulting in significant damage.

“The tyres have left deep gouges and uneven areas, making the surface quite dangerous for use.

“Restoring the pitch will require a lot of work, including resurfacing and levelling, to ensure it is safe and playable again.

“We will also need to fully secure the area to prevent further damage.

“We had to make the decision on Sunday to cancel all junior games.

“This included three visiting teams.

“Each game raises vital funds for the club through the hard work of volunteers and left a lot of parents and players disappointed.”

The bill for the damage is totting up, and Martin is hoping the community will be able to come together to support the club.

He added: “Preparation and renovation of the pitches cost the club around £10,000 each year - per pitch.

“We normally have to renovate one as we do this on a rotation.

“It looks like both will need work this year along with the extra security such as gates installed.

“We’re hoping for a lot of generosity and charity from the local community to help out with goods and services.”