THE chairman of Shanklin Football Club has strongly condemned the theft of personal items belonging to players — which included a bangle containing the ashes of one footballer's late father — while they were playing a reserves match.

During the match between Shanklin Reserves and Ventnor Reserves, at the County Ground in Green Lane, Shanklin, yesterday afternoon (Saturday), thieves targeted the away team's (Ventnor) changing room.

Wallets, mobile phones, watches and even a set of car keys were taken.

READ MORE: Footballer who had special bangle stolen during match describes thieves as scum

Among the items, in in one of the stolen wallets, was a silver bangle, which contained the ashes and a lock of hair of his father, and a ring.

The bangle and ring's owner, Adam Clark, said the items are of significant sentimental value to him and appealed for their return on Facebook.

Bank cards and cash was taken from the wallets, which, with the mobile phones and keys, were discovered discarded in bushes and a bin near the football ground.

Adam's bank card was used by a thief to buy £70 worth of items from Tesco Express in Lake yesterday.  

Although the players did not use the changing rooms at half-time, the Ventnor Reserves manager, Richard Broadhead, thought it likely the thefts were committed during he second half.

Police, who have launched an investigation, were called at 4.03pm yesterday to a report of a burglary, which affected four players.

"It was a bit of a nightmare. All the players are very annoyed about what happened, but they were pleased most of the items were found," said Richard.

"Me and the lads are absolutely gutted Adam hasn't got his bangle back, because it means so much to him. Let's hope they're caught on CCTV."  

Shanklin FC chairman, Richard Priest, echoed his sentiments.

"The football club totally condemns the behaviour of those responsible to this. It is not something that has happened at the club in all the years I've been part of it," said chairman Richard.

"It's awful. It ruined a good game played in good spirits. No one would've expected this to happen, and we ask whoever took the items to return them, or if any witnesses could come forward.

"We all hope the perpetrators are caught. CCTV at the club is being checked by the police for anyone acting suspiciously."

Shanklin FC has offered a reward to anyone who provides information, which leads to the recovery of the items.

Anyone with information is asked to contact 101, quoting 44240028711.