POLICE arrested two men after an allegedly stolen car was driven over the rugby pitches at the BASC ground in Burnham.

Officers were called to the ground on Sunday at 5pm to a report of a stolen Mercedes causing deep tyre marks over the playing surface.

The car contained two 20-year-old men who attempted to flee when officers arrived, say police.

Two men were later arrested on suspicion of criminal damage and taking a vehicle without consent as well as failing to stop for a police officer.

The chairman of Burnham Rugby Club said this week that the problem of youngsters driving over the pitch in their cars was a regular one over the years and he was delighted the police had taken action.

Chairman Caine Harding said: “I myself have come out the club before and seen people in their cars and warned them not to damage the pitch.

“Every year you get another 17- year-old who thinks it’s clever to drive on the pitch.

“It can mean that the grass doesn’t grow back and we are left with muddy areas and then you may have to look at repair costs and things like that.

“I am very pleased the police were able to make arrests this time.”

Police said: “The two men were arrested at the scene. They have now been bailed pending further enquiries.”