A children's football team can no longer play games after part of their goal was stolen.

Scott McDonagh, the manager of the Chalvedon Boys Football Club Under-8s team, said thieves had stooped to a new level when they stole from school children.

He had to cancel Sunday's home match and has now put all future games on hold.

Mr McDonagh, 33, of Rectory Road, Pitsea, said: "The thieves have not nicked it from me, they've nicked it from the kids. It's the kids who are missing out."

Dad Rob Yeldham, 28, of Stokefelde, Pitsea, has twin seven-year-old boys in the team, Shaun and Ryan.

He said: "To see their faces when we told them they couldn't play - it was devastation in their eyes.

"They were really looking forward to it.

Mindless people ruined not just our kids' day, but the day of the kids on the other team as well."

Insp Mark Rayner said: "We appeal to anyone with information to get in contact with police so the kids can get their goal back."

Tony Hedley, council cabinet member for leisure, added: "It is very sad. A very small number of people get pleasure out of spoiling other people's enjoyment."

Mr McDonagh said the goal posts set, which was kept in two bags, had been stored in his covered driveway.

The posts, costing £320, were donated to the team who don't have the funds to replace them.

Anyone who can help should call Mr McDonagh on 07736 442795 or Basildon police on 01268 532212.