A bowling green has been wrecked after groups of men were spotted playing football on the usually immaculate grass. 

And committee members who take care of the green say it will cost thousands to put right.

Officers from the South Ribble neighbourhood policing team received reports that men had been seen playing football on Penwortham bowling green off Factory Lane in Preston.

Studs from the men's football boots had wrecked the grass, causing thousands of pounds worth of damage.

On Sunday a spokesperson for the police said: "We have had reports of men playing football on Penwortham bowling green off Factory Lane.

The green has been badly damaged due to studded football boots being worn.

"A concerned member of the committee has said it will cost thousands to put this right.

"PSCO 7246 Denham is conducting further enquiries after being passed a vehicle registration today.

"We will be checking the area and ask that people stay off the green."

If anyone has any further information about this they can email 7246@lancashire.police.uk.