Trophies still being stolen from clubs

There has been a spate of burglaries at golf clubs in the last few weeks – with trophies remaining the prize asset for thieves.

Last year several golf clubs, particularly in southern England, had their trophies stolen in raids, but there have been fewer reports of thefts this year.

However, this summer Belford Golf Club in Northumberland found that 15 trophies, and a large amount of alcohol, were stolen in a late-night raid.

Club steward Fred Pymer said: “It looks like they tried all of the doors and then smashed one of the big windows to get in.

“All the trophies are prizes that members have won in tournaments and some have been dedicated to past members that have passed away.”

Meanwhile, nine trophies, worth nearly £1,000, have been stolen from Silverdale Golf Club in Lancashire.

Two trophy cabinets were raided also in a late-night raid – and the thieves took nothing else from the clubhouse.

Kingsway Golf Centre in Hertfordshire saw a break-in as thieves targeted the pro shop.

The burglars cut through wire and broke down a door, before stealing tens of thousands of pounds of equipment, mostly golf clubs and clothing.

There have also been reports of burglaries or attempted burglaries at Avington Park Golf Club in Hampshire, Belmont Golf Course in Herefordshire and at Bourn Golf Club in Cambridgeshire this summer.