THE Ottery theft of potentially deadly archery equipment worth hundreds of pounds has left hard-hit club members in the town worried it has fallen into the wrong hands.

THE Ottery theft of potentially deadly archery equipment worth hundreds of pounds has left hard-hit club members in the town worried it has fallen into the wrong hands.

Criminals plundered around 90 arrows, an American flat bow and quivers belonging to the Grandisson Archers on Saturday night after containers on The King's School's playing fields were forced open.

The equipment was uninsured, meaning the club will need to find hundreds of pounds to replace it.

Club vice chairman Paul Lowe said he was "angry and annoyed" that thieves would target a community sports facility, and is worried that the "dangerous" equipment, which is only ever used under the supervision of experts, is now in the hands of amateurs.

"It is a dangerous weapon if used inappropriately, and can cause a lot of harm, it is a worry it's somewhere out there in the community," said Mr Lowe.

"This is a serious bit of kit and a historic weapon of war that could cause a potentially fatal injury to a human. It is worrying that someone could shoot someone or damage property.

"We provide a service for the community and a sports activity, and now we've got to go and find replacements, the club can't afford to have its stuff insured.

"The equipment was kept in a container within a container, a strong box , and the arrows were stored inside a shipping container. They (thieves) forced that open and have destroyed it.

"We now have to re-think if we can keep any equipment on there (The King's School playing field). There will be a big impact for a lot of people, particularly the school which has archery lessons.

"For a small, new archery club that has got where we've got through finding money and grants, this is a kick in the teeth."

Mr Lowe has asked residents to keep an eye out for the distinctive equipment. Arrows are made of a black, carbon-like material and have plastic flights. Anybody willing to help the club can contact Paul on 07739034347.

- Police last week found between 30 and 40 arrows in the Sowton area of Exeter. The Herald has been told suspects are currently being investigated in connection to the theft.