Yobs on quad bikes have damaged cricket pitches... yet again.

Police have launched an investigation after reports emerged that four people on two quadbikes had damaged Benfleet Cricket Club’s pitch.

The pitch, in Woodside Park, Benfleet, was reportedly damaged during the afternoon last Saturday.

Essex Police have issued a description of who the suspects may be for the latest incident of criminal damage.

The force described them as being aged between 12 to 16, with one of the group having “distinctive red hair.”

The cricket club were also burgled in January, with thieves smashing their way into the clubhouse, emptying the till and stealing cash, which was destined to be donated to charity.

The club bosses discovered the thieves had left a huge mess behind in the clubhouse, with broken glass and bar equipment thrown around the building.

This time last year, the same field was targeted by yobs, with severe damage caused to the pitch by quadbikes.

Damage to nearby residents gardens was also caused by the thugs at the time.

The club feared last year that they were being targeted by groups causing vandalism.

A spokesman from Essex Police, confirmed that a probe had been launched. They said: “We are investigating reports of criminal damage whereby the pitch at the cricket club at Woodside Park Benfleet has been damaged by four youths on two quad bikes.

“This incident occurred just before 3pm on Saturday 14th March 2020.

“The youths are described as white, aged between 12 to 16 years old with one of them having distinctive red hair.”

The spokesman continued, and urged anyone with information to come forward. They said: “Were you in the area at the time, did you seen these youths on their quad bikes?

“If you have dashcam footage and think you may be able to help, please contact PC Risden via clicking the email link on our Essex Police - Castle Point page, quoting investigation 42/40601/20.

“Alternatively you can provide information completely anonymously by contacting Crimestoppers UK on 0800 555 111 or via their website https://crimestoppers-uk.org.”