Cricketers have launched an appeal after arsonists destroyed their pavilion and equipment.

Ryan Hawley has set up a GoFundMe page after the Boxing Day blaze and vandalism at Mansfield Cricket Club on Rosemary Street.

Communal areas, changing rooms, senior and junior equipment, and kit were wrecked.

Ryan said: “A lot of people put a lot of hard work into this club so people can enjoy cricket in the local area.

“We are devastated by what has happened. Everything has been damaged by fire and smoke; it will set us back massively.

“Please consider donating to support our club as we try to find a way of playing in the upcoming season and continue to support the local community with our junior development programmes.”

Vice chairman the Rev Jake Hyatt added: “It is bitterly disappointing to have a community sports club attacked in such a way. However, we are a club that aims to bring people of all ages and all backgrounds together and we will not be beaten by mindless violence.”

Mansfield District Council, which owns the pavilion, also lost a large quantity of resources it uses to deliver its nutrition sessions at school holiday clubs. The pavilion was also used to prepare and cook food for the sessions.

Coun Andy Burgin, portfolio holder for Environment and Leisure, said: “This was a terrible act of mindless criminal destruction and we hope those responsible are brought to justice swiftly.

“Our hearts go out to the cricket club at what must be a difficult time for them.

“These clubs are a vital part of our sports provision in the district and play such an important and positive role in the community.”

To support the appeal go to https://www.gofundme.com/f/mansfield-cricket-club