Bowls clubs are being warned to beware of thieves who steal benches from greens.

The thieves, believed to members of an organised gang, have targeted at least three Oxford bowling greens in the past few weeks.

The Oxford University Press Bowls Club had eight iron benches stolen from its green, in Jordan Hill, north Oxford, last Sunday.

The City and County Bowls Club, in Marston Ferry Road, and the Wadham College Bowling Club, have also fallen victim to the thieves.

The same gang may also be responsible for stealing two benches from Summer Fields school, in Mayfield Road, north Oxford, last Tuesday.

Les Portman, captain of the Oxford University Press Bowls Club, said the benches stolen from his club will cost at least £1,000 to replace.

One of the benches was fitted with a plaque in memory of former club member Stan Topp, who died three years ago.

Mr Topp's wife, Gay, was said to be "extremely upset" by its loss.

Mr Portman, 61, said: "It looks like this gang is very organised and is getting a lot of money for these benches somewhere.

"Other bowls clubs need to be warned about them. Hopefully someone will notice if they are trying to sell the benches locally and call the police."

The benches from the University Press club were recently painted green wand had stained wooden slats.

Anyone with information should call Oxford police on 01865 266333.

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