Mulbarton Wanderers FC, a football club that plays in the Thurlow Nunn Eastern Counties Premier Division in England, recently had its John Deere tractor and Quadraplay pitch marking machine stolen from a storage shed located at the end of the club’s Mulberry Park ground. This theft has left the club’s grounds staff without any equipment just as crucial games are set to be played at the ground. The total value of the stolen equipment is estimated to be £28,000, and the club had only recently acquired it.
The chairman of the club, Duane James, has expressed dismay over the theft. He received a call notifying him that the tractor was missing and initially thought it was a joke. However, upon checking, it was confirmed that the equipment was indeed gone, leaving only the number plate behind. With club games scheduled in the immediate future, the timing of the theft has significantly impacted the club’s preparations, forcing them to pay staff or contractors to prepare the pitch as they wait to sort out the insurance. Adult and children’s pitches alike are now out of commission as a result.
The stolen equipment includes the only tractor and pitch marking machine the club had, making it extremely difficult for them to adequately maintain the grounds for their upcoming games. Mr. James has reported the incident to the police and expressed frustration at the situation. He emphasized that such thefts are not typical in their neighborhood and that they are now dealing with the aftermath of the situation while trying to get their insurance sorted, which could take several months.
The unfortunate timing of this theft leaves Mulbarton Wanderers FC in a difficult position as they attempt to make alternative arrangements for maintaining their pitches for games. With the insurance process expected to be lengthy, the club is faced with the challenge of continuing their operations without the stolen equipment, which adds further stress and expenses. The chairman’s annoyance and frustration are also evident as he expresses his disbelief and disappointment at the situation.
