A cricket club in Dorset has been left reeling after the theft of equipment.

The covering used by Cerne Valley Cricket Club to keep the wicket dry has been stolen.

It was taken overnight sometime between 8.30pm and 6.15am on August 2 or 3 from The Simsay Oval in Cerne Abbas, where the club plays.

The plastic waterproofing covers were cut from a mobile frame which is rolled over the wicket when it is not in use.

Dozens of cable ties were snipped to remove the three covers.

Club Captain Lloyd Mitchen said: "Not only will it make the ground team's job of preparing the wicket now extremely difficult for our senior teams, but as a club, we are going to struggle to replace them immediately as they are very expensive."

As a result of this act, one match had to be cancelled because the wicket was in an unplayable state.

Mobile covers like this one can cost thousands of pounds.

Lloyd Mitchen added: "When it happened we had to put a sheet over the wicket. We had to cancel a game because the wicket was too wet.

"I was shocked by it. It is an odd thing to steal. We have had the cover for years and nothing has happened to them and then a random theft like this. I have been in the club for four years and this is the first bit of vandalism and theft I have seen.

"There is no one in the village who would have any reason to steal it. Unless you are a cricket club what are you going to use them for?"

Following this incident, the club is considering installing additional CCTV cameras.

The police have been informed and the club is asking for anyone with information to get in touch.

"We are a friendly and inclusive club that caters for men and women of all ages. All we want to do is provide a place where cricket can be enjoyed, for years to come," added Mr Mitchen

"The police have been informed about this. If you have any information, or live near the ground and have any cameras, please contact the club."