Thieves stole a footballer's kit on the eve of a local derby, causing her to miss the match.

Left-back Debbie Nicklin, 37, of Brooklands Road, Brantham, had been due to play for Colchester Ladies in a crunch match against arch-rivals Colchester United.

But thieves stole her sports bag containing £250 of football kit from her car parked outside the pub owned by her parents while she was at their leaving party.

Miss Nicklin is the daughter of Danny and Jill Bryan, who are retiring from the Ship Inn in Valley Road, Great Clacton, this Friday. She said: "I am absolutely gutted. Being a single parent, I can't afford to replace it all.

"As my car insurance only covers me for up to £50, I can't afford to replace everything."

Miss Nicklin has played for Colchester Ladies since their formation in 1991 and the team are now looking for a sponsor.

Unfortunately, it was a doubly disappointing day for Miss Nicklin as she saw her team lose 4-3.

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