BBCSports clubs are being offered forensic markers to help protect equipment, following a rise in thefts.
Devon and Cornwall Police said tractors, mowers and other high-value equipment had been stolen from clubs this year, and the crime prevention team had worked with victims to find a solution.
Hannah Denton, crime prevention officer, said about 35 incidents had taken place throughout Devon and Cornwall since 1 March, which she said was a “massive increase to what we usually see”.
The force has part-funded smart water forensic marking kits by DeterTech, and has fully funded anti-theft signage in a bid to deter thieves and ensure equipment returns to its owner.
‘Hugely damaging’
The force said each kit retails for £300 but had been offered to clubs for £60.
It said Devon Cricket Foundation’s facilities and funding manager, Nick Goodliffe, had been hugely supportive of the scheme, adding that more than 50 clubs had already signed up.
James Ewan, from Bridestow Cricket Club, said the club was targeted by thieves before the start of the summer who stole about six mowers and a generator.
“[They] basically cleared us out,” he added.
Sgt Thomas Ottley said thefts were “hugely damaging” and “in some cases result in the community losing that asset”.
Dave Lewis from DeterTech said items marked by the forensic smart water kit had a unique code and were invisible to the naked eye.
“It makes that property identifiable uniquely as belonging to that organisation or homeowner,” he added.
The force said it was investigating a number of reports of burglaries at sports clubs in the force area.
“Devon and Cornwall take this type of invasive and upsetting crime very seriously,” it added.