Gangs of vandals who attack sports clubs in Bradford are leaving thousands of pounds worth of damage in their wake.

In the latest incident Eccleshill Bowling Club had iron bars removed by its front gate before three drain pipes were ripped from its clubhouse and a floodlight cable cover destroyed.

Club president Jim Spencer said a gang of about 40 youths also played football on the crown green which required emergency repairs.

He said: "The members are completely fed up and we've been asking the Council for a higher security fence even though it's already 6ft high in most places. When we call the park rangers they come straight away but the police don't seem to be interested."

Tony Vinette, secretary of Mayfield Cricket Club, said more than a thousand pounds of damage had been done to its clubhouse in Clayton after a break-in.

He said: "Once they were inside the clubhouse they kicked in cubicle doors in the toilets and totally smashed up the place. Someone looked like they've tried to open up our metal roof with a can-opener, it was all ripped up.

"They also set fire to the umpire's room and score box. I just don't think there's an answer. It's seems as though this vandalism is endemic in Bradford."

Sergeant Roy Wensley of Toller Lane police confirmed officers were investigating the break-in and added they had arrested one youth. Sergeant Kevin Edwards of the Eccleshill Police Community Action Team said he was aware of the problems at Eccleshill Bowling Club.

He said: "The area's constable, PC Dave Bale, carries out regular high visibility patrols in Eccleshill. We've have taken steps to combat the problems there and on the recreational ground. Our job is to be high profile on the streets and anyone can call us on (01274) 376025."

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