CELEBRATIONS turned to misery when Chester FC fans returned to their cars after a 3-0 win over local rivals Vauxhall Motors.
Thieves wreaked havoc on the car park at the Exacta Stadium, on Bumpers Lane, while the car owners were cheering on their team at Rivacre Park in Ellesmere Port on Tuesday night.
Cheshire Constabulary issued an appeal for anyone who may have spotted suspicious activity in and around the car park.
Spokeswoman Rachel Hayes said: “At 10.12pm police were called to Chester Football Club in Bumpers Lane in Chester following the report of multiple thefts and criminal damage at its car park.
“Chester fans, who were watching a match that evening had left their cars there. In total 15 cars had their front nearside windows broken.
“Four of the cars had items such as satnavs stolen from them.
“Officers are currently working with staff at the club regarding CCTV and are making enquiries in the area.”
Sgt John Forshaw said: “Last night was an isolated incident which was clearly carried out by thieves who took advantage of a large number of cars being left unattended.
“We are currently reviewing club CCTV to identify the offenders, and have been making enquiries at other businesses to see if their CCTV or staff picked up on any suspicious activity in the area at the time.
“We would urge anyone with information to contact us so that we can locate the offenders and deal with them appropriately.
“While we continue with our enquiries, we would advise motorists that even if you have put your valuables out of view while you are away from you car, this will not stop a determined thief. Don’t leave valuables in your car and always ensure your vehicle is secure.”
Anyone who saw any suspicious activity in the Bumpers Lane on Tuesday evening should telephone Chester CID on 101, quoting incident number 1014 of October 30, 2012. Alternatively, information can be given anonymously by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
