Canoes taken during hole-in-the-wall raid

Black Country scouts were heartbroken today after thieves smashed through the wall of their headquarters and stole all their canoes.

Ten boats and an electric generator worth more than £2,000l were stolen from the base of Wolverhampton North Scouts, which has more than 200 members aged between six and 25.

The thieves broke down the breeze-block wall of the centre in Moat House Lane West, Wednesfield, before plundering all of the equipment.

Bob Denson, aged 62, a scout leader for more than 40 years, today said: "They didn't take the oars or the life jackets. We just can't understand why anyone would do this – it's not like they can sell them on in the pub or even use them on the canals themselves as the police will be keeping watch.

"It just leaves you lost for words. We try to do something positive for the local youngsters and then these people come along and do this – and for what gain?"

Mr Denson said the scouts used the canoes at least once a month on the local canals and the boys and girls were "devastated" they could no longer take to the water.

It is the second time in five years the group has had its canoes stolen.

"They broke down the concrete wall of the purpose-built secure building," Mr Denson added. "I mean, what more can we do to protect ourselves?"

The theft took place sometime between last Wednesday and yesterday. The scout activity centre backs on to the Wyrley & Essington Canal.

West Midlands Police spokeswoman Jaspreet Jagdev said today: "Police are investigating a burglary from a scout hut in Moat House Lane West where a number of canoes and an electric generator were stolen. The burglary is believed to have occurred between August 18 and 24."

Anyone with information can call Wednesfield police station on 0845 1135000.