THIEVES who stole cash raised for Help for Heroes have been branded very low.

Jon Williams collected £300 in sponsorship for playing in an Army versus Navy Rugby match in aid of the military charity on Saturday But while the Mersea Island Rugby Club player took to the field, thieves smashed the window of his car and stole the cash and his mobile phone.

The 38-year-old described the theft as upsetting and frustrating.

He said: “It spoiled a really good day which had seen lots of people give up their time for a fantastic cause.

“Whoever did this knew full well what the event was about and the cause they were taking money from.

“Obviously they do not realise and appreciate the sacrifices our guys make when they’re off fighting overseas.”

“This was a very low act, but unfortunately that’s how society is.”

Mr Williams’s Citroen Picasso was one of at least three cars broken in to during the event, which was organised by Woodbridge Rugby Club in Suffolk.

Veteran players from Essex and Suffolk joined soldiers and sailors in Red Army and Navy Blues teams at Woodbridge’s Orford Road ground.

Mr Williams, of Landermere Road, Thorpe, played for the Army, which won 33-24. He scored two tries and was named man of the match. Players from Brightlingsea and Colchester rugby clubs also took part in the match, which raised more than £2,000 for Help for Heroes.

Marianne West, Essex co-ordinator for the charity, added: “I hope the idiots who stole this money will have a huge pang of remorse and return it for the benefit of our wounded service people, who really need help to mend their shattered lives.”

Donations can be made by visiting www.justgiving.com/vetsrugby