Arsonists who destroyed a cricket team's clubhouse were today being hunted by police following a £5,000 blaze.

And cricket club officials fear that the latest outbreak of vandalism and anti-social behaviour at Hannakins Farm in Billericay could escalate to a point at which someone dies.

Residents in nearby Rosebay Avenue and Linda Gardens say they are frustrated and angry over loud music emanating from cars being driven at high speed down their roads.

And they say they are angry over damage being caused by youths.

A Ford Escort car was burnt out on the playing field, and part of the cricket pitch, as well as the clubhouse, was destroyed by flames.

But today staff at Hannakins Farm said they would not let the vandals deter them from using the playing ground for games and activities as well as for competitive sports.

Mike Long, the fixture secretary for Great Burstead Cricket Club, said: "The wooden clubhouse was burnt as the car was set on fire right next to it.

"Then another car drove into the clubhouse."

"The burnt car was a total wreck and rubbish, bottles and needles were left lying on the pitch."

Mr Long added: "We have things going on all year round and we are worried that someone will get badly hurt or die.

"However, we will continue to use the pitch because we refuse to be defeated by these idiots."

PC Julie Dawes, of Billericay Police, said: "We are now patrolling the area every night."

Billericay Town Council leader Trevor Stansfield said: "We did think about gates at one time, but we don't want to deter legitimate users of the park."

Published Thursday, April 24, 2003

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