Rush of support for fire-hit club

A Shropshire bowling club devastated by fire today said it has been overwhelmed by the support it has received from people across the county.

Bylet Bowling Club, in Bridgnorth, said offers to help it salvage its season have poured in from clubs and organisations.

The fire on Monday morning destroyed the Bylet's club house, which is on an island in the River Severn, off Severn Street.

Police believe it was stared by burglars after they broke into the club and stole a wall safe containing about £220. More than £3,000 had been removed the previous day.

Club officials today said they hoped to carry on with their fixtures despite the fire.

Captain Tom McGill said the club had been "touched" by the support and also thanked Shropshire Fire Service for taking care with the greens when tackling the blaze.

Mr McGill said: "Tears have been shed but they have been replaced by a steely determination to repair and replenish the Bylet and move on from this traumatic event."

Detective Sergeant Allan Crossley said: "I am anxious to hear from anyone with information which might assist our inquiries, and in particular, from anyone who may have found the safe discarded by the offenders."