Appeal after Exeter baseball club raided

A community baseball club in Exeter has been left reeling after thieves broke into its storage container and stole vital equipment just weeks before the start of the new season.

The break-in happened overnight, with all of the Exeter Spitfire's bats taken. Catchers’ gear was later discovered in a nearby field and is believed to be largely intact, although a full assessment of losses and damage is still under way.

Following the incident, officials at the club confirmed that 12 baseball bats are missing, with an estimated value of at least £1,200. Replacement costs could rise further if specialist equipment needs to be imported.

With fewer than 40 days until the season begins, the theft represents a significant setback. As a grassroots organisation, the club relies heavily on fundraising and grant support to purchase equipment and cover running costs.

Club representatives have appealed to the public for information. Anyone who has seen baseball equipment abandoned in the Exeter area, or noticed suspicious online sales posts offering bats or other gear, is urged to come forward.

They have also launched an online fundraising appeal to help replace the stolen equipment and ensure the season can begin as planned.