A WYRE Forest sporting club has been given a leg up in its bid to replace expensive equipment stolen by raiders thanks to a welcome cash boost.

Talented youngsters from Kidderminster and Stourport Athletic Club have not been able to train for almost a month after thieves made off with 17 hurdles, which cost £50 each.

Fund-raisers from Kidderminster and District Lions roared into action to hand over a cheque for £500 to help get the athletes back on track.

Colin Hill, the Lions' president, said: "When we heard what had happened we wanted to do something because all of us feel the athletic club offers a valuable service for the community.

"In that respect, it is a great example of what everything behind Lionism is about. We hope money will help them continue their good work."

More than 200 members, including about 140 youngsters, train at the modern Stourport Sport Club facilities, in Kingsway, every week.

Derek Aston, the club's president, said: "We were very shocked when we received the call from the Lions. It came out of the blue but it was a fantastic surprise. We cannot thank them enough.

"Things like this go to show what good can be done when the community comes together. The money will help us replace more than half of the hurdles stolen."

Witnesses or anyone with information about the incident, which happened between 10.30pm on Monday, July 17, and 9am the following day, can call Stourport police on 08457 444888 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.