Officials were today standing guard at Bridgnorth Football Club after raiders broke in and cleaned the clubhouse out of televisions and a rare memento from a team of visiting Japanese players.

Workmen were being sought to carry out emergency repairs and make the building secure after the burglars struck at the clubhouse in Innage Lane between 11pm yesterday and 6am today.

Last-ditch efforts were also being made to get the clubhouse fully up and running again with just three days to go before the first team’s Midland Football Alliance season kicks off with a home game against Boldmere.

Cash was also taken in the break-in in which the raiders stole four Samsung flat-screen TVs. Also taken was a rare bottle of Nikka Gold and Gold whisky which had been given to the club by Japanese students from Tokyo when they toured Shropshire this year.

Constable Ingrid Hall said the bottle was distinctive as the top half and cap were metal and made in the form of a Japanese warrior.

She added: “If anybody saw or heard suspicious persons or vehicles in the area during the night I would urge them to please contact police on 0300 333 3000.

“We are also keen to hear from anybody who might be offered televisions similar to those stolen for sale or if anybody knows the whereabouts of the rare whisky that was taken.”

Zoe Griffiths, club treasurer, said the raid was the second on the clubhouse in three years, burglars having escaped with about £1,000 cash in the earlier break-in.

“We are trying to arrange for workmen to volunteer to come in and make repairs so we can secure the clubhouse by tonight but we are staying on site until that is done,” she said.