A DOUBLE break in at the club's premises has added to Kendal Town's woes as they enter the critical phase of their battle against relegation from the Evo-Stik League.

But chairman George Gudgeon told The Westmorland Gazette the thieves had failed to prevent business going on as usual and everyone at the club was doubly determined to get behind Steve Edmondson's young side as they prepare to host Trafford on Saturday,

Intruders initially broke into a club building between 1pm on March 1 and 10am on March 2 by forcing a window and stole a number of items including a generator, a flatscreen television and a number of tools.

They returned several days later and gained entry in a similar manner, but did not steal anything on this occasion.

"We discovered the first break-in when we got to the ground to open up and get things ready for the home game against Market Drayton," said Mr Gudgeon.

"It was disappointing that those items were stolen but our main worry was that the police would still be carrying out their investigations and we would have to delay the kick off or even call the game off.

"I had spoken to the league to let them know but thankfully the police were very good and they completed what they needed to do and we were OK."

Mr Gudgeon said they now planned to permanently board up the windows where the thieves entered in the hope of preventing further problems.

On the field, confirmation is still awaited from the Evo-Stik League over whether, following Colwyn Bay's decision to resign from the league, only one club will be relegated from the competition's West division.

If this is the case, the Mintcakes would only need to stay above basement boys Skelmersdale, who they currently lead by seven points, to avoid the drop, but Mr Gudgeon said they were not relying on this possible reprieve.

"We are fully focused on catching third from bottom Clitheroe to guarantee our safety," he said.

The Town chairman said he believed the rebuilt side had been very unlucky with injuries, with former Preston North End centre back Tom Stead recently joining the casualty list after being sidelined with a hamstring problem.

However, the ranks have been boosted this week with the signing of two new faces in the shape of promising young players Lewis Wainwright and Drew Matthews.

The club have also confirmed that last week's postponed league game at Runcorn Linnets has now been rearranged for next Tuesday, March 26.

Anyone who has information on the break-in is asked to contact the police on 101 quoting log 90. Alternatively call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.