Police are investigating a break in which could have blown up a county cricket club, according to its chairman.

They say they are  looking for three hooded teenagers in connection with the break in at Norton Cricket Club.

Caught on CCTV, three hooded teenagers used gas canisters to break in and damage property, leaving behind a replica handgun.

A West Mercia Police spokesman said: "On Tuesday 28 December shortly before 4.30pm officers were called to the cricket club in Brockhill Lane, Norton, Worcestershire following reports of a break-in.

"Forensics have been carried out and an investigation is under way.

"Anyone who has any information is urged to call 101 or visit our website, quoting incident 331i of 28 December, 2021 or report it online via our website www.westmerciapolice.uk/tua/tell-us-about/

"Officers are particularly interested in tracing three males seen hanging around in the area between 3.30 and 4.20pm that afternoon.

"Alternatively, if you have information but don’t feel comfortable speaking to police, you can speak to the independent charity Crimestoppers. It is 100% anonymous, they never ask your name and they cannot trace your call or IP address. You can contact them online or by calling 0800 555 111."

Club chairman Dormston Cook, said the burglars could have blown up the club.

He said: "We have heard nothing as of yet, but we are hoping to hear more later this week.

They smashed both kitchen windows.

"They tried to knock off the door, it was dented and moved off the wall.

"They turned on gas canisters and just left them on.

"We keep these in the courtyard behind locked doors but they used the canisters to break into the building.

"It could have blown them up, the club up and any houses in the vicinity of the area."