DETECTIVES have issued an urgent appeal in a bid to stop yobs from damaging a sports centre.

Essex Police says the Waterside Farm Sports Centre in Canvey suffered "extensive criminal damage" across a two-week period in November.

The model railway club, which is based at the centre, is said to have been a particular target for yobs.

The sports centre is estimated to suffered £13,500 worth of damage and police are now appealing for any witnesses to come forward.

A spokesman said: "This is a facility enjoyed by local residents and visitors from afar and as such is reliant on them being able to operate effectively.

"If you have any information in relation to this investigation, please call PC Gillespie on 101, quoting investigation number 42/195756/20."

The damage is thought to have occurred between November 16 and 30.