People are keeping quiet about serious vandalism at a children’s football pitch because of a “fear of reprisals”, police have claimed.

Youngsters from the Weston Lane Junior Sports and Social Club in Otley have been forced to play their games at alternative venues after the vandals struck last month.

A blue van was seen driving all over the pitches at about 8.30pm on Tuesday, November 23, leaving deep gouges on the playing surface and leading to concerns the club could be forced to fold.

There has also been at least one more incident of vandalism at the club.

Now officers investigating the case say people from the Weston Lane estate may be unwilling to volunteer information for fear of retaliation from the people who “destroyed” the pitch.

And they are suggesting people give information anonymously if they are worried about revenge attacks.

“On more than one occasion a car has been driven across the surface and this has caused substantial damage,” a police report said.

“This is a criminal offence and as such someone could end up with a criminal record. In addition we have the power to seize motor vehicles being used in an anti-social manner.”

One of the club’s coaches believes people leaving near the site probably know who did the damage.

Vanessa James, who is also a fundraising officer with the club, said she was “100 per cent certain” people were concerned about revenge attacks if they gave information to the police.

However, she said there had been a “fantastic” response with people willing to help the club after the story featured in the Telegraph & Argus. She said: “We’ve had people contact us and donate money to the club and had a real sense of support for the club.”

Anyone with information about the vandalism should call 0845 6060606, e-mail aa.nptnorthwestouter@westyorkshire.pnn.police.uk or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.