MOLES are causing a hole lot of bother at an East Lancashire recreation ground.

For a row has broken out after thieves stole a set of mole traps from the Lower Darwen Recreation Ground. They had been laid by Darwen Rangers Junior Football Club, who use the ground.

More than 300 children use the Sandy Lane field each week and traps were put down due to safety concerns over mole-runs and holes, with around a dozen spotted each week.

Club chairman John Parker described the mole runs as extremely dangerous for players, adding: “Broken ankles are a real possibility.”

The club, which paid £50 for the traps, placed them on the field last Thursday after more mole activity. 

But Mr Parker, of Darwen, said CCTV footage shows three dog-walkers putting the 10 traps into a carrier bag and taking them at noon on Friday, less than 24 hours after they were laid.

Mr Parker man condemned the theft on social media, and described the use of the traps as humane and an effective way to keep mole numbers down.

The chairman said: “This is an infestation that clearly damages the playing surface, but is also dangerous to children or dogs running around. Traps are a humane and proportionate way to keep mole numbers down.”

Several people commented on the post and questioned whether traps should be used to kill ‘defenceless animals’ for the sake of football.

Joe Hine, said: “I’d like to shake the hands of those who took the traps. That field is the moles’ home. Leave them alone.”

Denise Morgan, said: “How dare you think it’s OK to go around trapping and killing animals. Shame on you.”
Police wildlife officer Nigel Keates said it is legal to use mole traps but stealing them is not, regardless of ethical concerns.

Mr Keates said there does not seem to be an easy solution to getting rid of the moles, adding: “There is a variety ways of doing it and I would assume any football club is going to be well aware of the public perception and try to find the most humane way. 

“I sympathise with both sides. If you had a Pied Piper to charm the moles away everyone would be happy but, unfortunately, that’s not a realistic option.”