A TRACTOR was stolen from a Hampshire football club overnight.

Staff at Eastleigh Football Club woke to find damage to fencing, and their ISEKI tractor was missing, ahead off their clash with Vanarama National League rivals, Maidenhead United.

The tractor, which is worth around £19,000 was seen on the club's CCTV driving around two car parks.

This happened between 10.15pm and 10.45pm on Sunday.

A Hampshire police spokesperson said: "Sometime between 10.15pm-10.45pm 21 April a tractor worth about £19,000 stolen from Eastleigh Football Club.

"There was also damage to fencing where the tractor has been removed.

"Anyone with information is asked to call 101 quoting 44190137968."

The club's head groundsman, Dan Barnes, took to social media to say: "Gutted is an understatement.

"Last night my compound was broken in to and our ISEKI tractor was stolen.

"Safe to say they made a mess.

"If anyone could please help and see if we can track it down with the help of Hampshire Constabulary."

A spokesperson for the club told the Echo: "The effect won’t be felt today, but it will be felt during the off season and the renovation of the pitch before the new season."

One Twitter user supported the club, stating: "Hope you find the mindless thieves that took your tractor.

"So sad people feel the need to blight people’s lives by stealing."