A children’s football club has been hit by vandalism.

Rye Bay Football Club has shared pictures of the damage done to its equipment and facilities, with its shed ripped open and line making paint thrown across a field.

The club said on social media: “Absolutely gutted to report that the club has suffered a huge amount of damage and loss over the last 24 hours.

“We have been lucky enough to collaborate with Rye College for a venue for some of our teams to train during the week.

“In the last 24 hours our shed has been vandalised, equipment damaged and expensive line marking paint thrown across the field costing us hundreds of pounds.

The club's shed was also damaged The club's shed was also damaged (Image: Rye Bay Football Club) “As a not for profit club we take a huge hit in situations like this. We don’t have funds to replace things and more than anything are genuinely gutted that certain individuals show zero respect for our property that is purely to help develop young people in a fun environment.

“We will be reporting this to the police and checking local CCTV. We ask that anyone with any information about this comes forward to us or the police.”

A GoFundMe has been started to help raise money to replace the equipment. To date, over £1,300 has been donated.

Supporters of the club shared their anger over the incident, with some calling it “disgusting”.

One commenter wrote: “Heartbreaking. Just why, for a few laughs maybe. l hope the little thugs get caught and made to clean up and pay for it.”

A GoFundMe has been started to help the club pay for the damage A GoFundMe has been started to help the club pay for the damage (Image: Rye Bay Football Club) Businesses and organisations have also shown their support, with the Rye Sea and Royal Marines Cadets offering storage space and help with  cleaning up.

“We know all too well the devastating effects of theft and vandalism”, it added. 

“We would like to help another great organisation in the town if we can at all.”

The football club was started in 1996 and runs a range of teams from under sevens to under 15s.

Sussex Police have been contacted for information.