YOUNG cricketers were unable to shower after their matches because vandals targeted their changing rooms.

Windows on the pavilion of Wootton Bassett Cricket Club were smashed in on Saturday.

Club officials cannot bring themselves to repair the damage because they are so disheartened by the constant criminal damage caused to their home.

President Albert Davey, said: "Why? Why would anyone want to harm an activity like cricket?

"I am really despairing of the situation.

"We cover all ages from seven to 60. I can't think of any reason for anyone to do this, other than just for fun.

"This is such a regular occurrence. We have almost given up.

"We have boarded up the windows and we're not going to replace the glass because it will just happen again.

"The youth coach turned up on Sunday morning and discovered this mess.

"There was glass everywhere. We couldn't send anyone in so the showers are completely out of use.

"It must have made quite a lot of noise. These are not normal windows, they are toughened glass.

"It tends to always be happening overnight, mainly Saturdays."

Since a £25,000 restoration project was completed on the Rylands Way club in 1997, it has been blighted by vandalism.

Almost as soon as the work was completed in June 1997, vandals tried to burn the building down.

Rope was tied around the railings on the veranda and set alight. A door was badly scorched but the building survived.

In 2002, 13 large holes were cut in the perimeter fence by vandals wanting access to the ground.

In April 2003 and 2004, the Adver reported on damage to the railings, again on the veranda.

All the wooden uprights were ripped out and vandals tried to gain access to the building.

"We really want some help in putting a stop to this and catching those responsible," said Mr Davey.

"I'm really surprised no one saw anything.

"We are playing at a pretty high level and it is an embarrassment to have other teams come and see this.

"Wootton Basset is a fantastic place and has a really great community spirit, but this kind of things really lets us down."

Anyone with any information on the recent spate of vandalism is asked to contact Wootton Bassett police on 0845 408 7000.