The Orpington community has rallied behind a children’s football club after its clubhouse was ransacked by callous thieves.

Orpington Football Club lost "thousands of pounds" after its pavilion in Goodington Park was recently looted.

Gutted chairman Richard Kettle said he was told about the burglary on the morning of July 11 and was left "shocked and disgusted".

The club, which has 30 teams and caters for hundreds of children, is celebrating its 80th anniversary this year and the break-in sparked outrage amongst locals.

A fundraising page was set up and more than £1,000 had been pledged at the time of publishing.

One contributor donated £100 and wrote: "Can’t think of a better cause or way of demonstrating community spirit to a huge group of kids. Hope everyone rallies around."

A club statement on the JustGiving page read: "Whilst we are disappointed and upset, we have also been overwhelmed with offers of support from the local community.

"If you would like to help us bounce back stronger with improved facilities that will benefit not only our youth players but also the wider members of our community, please consider a donation."

Mr Kettle has worked at the club for a decade and was appointed chairman 18 months ago.

He said the support from people has amazed him and claimed it was the one positive in what’s been a challenging time.

"The community is disgusted," the chairman said. "Over 10,000 people have seen what we wrote.

"There’s been an outpouring of support and it means a lot. We want to be a big part of the community so it’s a fantastic feeling."

Thieves stormed through the premises by breaking a gate before smashing through doors and stealing valuables including a tractor, lawn mower, team trophies, new gazebos and a PA system.

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Mr Kettle insisted that the club will not be fazed by the disruption and it will continue to allow children to play football.

"I don’t want people to think this has broken us," he said. "We won’t be fazed or broken.

"We will continue to serve the community."

Support has flooded in from various organisations, including nearby team Orpington Rovers and Friends of Chislehurst Recreation Ground, who described being "utterly sickened" at the news.

Police say they were called just before 6am and that entrance was gained after the front door was forced open.

A statement added: "An untidy search was carried out inside and several items have been reported stolen.

"No arrests have been made."

Anyone with information is asked to call police on 101 quoting CAD 1290/11JUL or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

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