AN overnight break-in at a North East racecourse has been described as “bitterly disappointing” days before a showcase meeting.

Thieves broke into Redcar Racecourse at 3.30am this morning (Saturday) and stole a Polaris all-terrain vehicle and caused damage to rails as they escaped along the track.

Racecourse officials are appealing for witnesses, CCTV footage, and any information about the whereabouts of the missing vehicle, which performs a vital function on racedays.

The crime comes ahead of Monday’s Zetland Gold Cup meeting – one of the premier fixtures of Redcar’s year – with racing also taking place on Tuesday.

Redcar’s general manager Amy Fair stressed that racing would go ahead as planned on both days but added: “It is bitterly disappointing for this to happen. The team work so hard to prepare for racing and this is a real kick in the teeth.”

The thieves made their exit up the straight, causing damage to rails along the way, and it is hoped they will have been caught on CCTV footage from homes backing onto the track.

“The Polaris vehicle is integral to racedays, being used to transport various pieces of vital equipment, so we now have to find a replacement in time for Monday,” said Amy.

“The Zetland Gold Cup on Monday is one of the jewels in our crown and it is so frustrating that such mindless criminality is causing extra work so close to such an important day.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact the racecourse office on 01642 484068.

• Picture shows Liberty Coach winning last year's Zetland Gold Cup