VILE criminals have ruined a social club hall dedicated for and used by war heroes.

The crooks targeted the Basildon and Laindon British Legion Hall at The Triangle, off High Road, Langdon Hills.

Furious club bosses blasted the thieves for ransacking the venue and ruining it for war veterans.

Gina Blackford, 59, the club’s treasurer said: “They went in by destroying the back door.

“They were clearly searching for cash and stole some bottles of spirit from the bar area.

“Everything had been wrecked, every room and box and cupboard was ruined, it is just ridiculous.

“I went there on Saturday and when I found all the mess it was a real shock.

“I couldn’t quite realise what had happened at first, I was just so horrified by all the mess.

“By the look of all the mess made to the door they must have used some considerable force.

“They have also caused a lot of damage to the door of the hall.

“Basildon Council has been great and came and installed a temporary door for us already.”

The club boss who believes the break-in happened some time between last Thursday and Saturday said the sight of the damage was simply heartbreaking.

She said: “We work so hard and are all volunteers and this has ruined it for the veterans.

“I estimate the damage will cost thousands of pounds to put right.”

Kerry Smith, deputy leader of Basildon Council, urged witnesses to come forward.

He said: “The damaged doors were fixed by the council as an emergency repair.

“If anyone has any information for the police please contact Crimestoppers so that these criminals, that have no respect for our armed forces, can be arrested.”

Call police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.