HUDDERSFIELD Town’s Canalside complex had to be closed – because of criminals.

The club was forced to shut down the facility yesterday after lead thieves struck shortly before the snow fell – causing a massive leak.

The roof of the main building was stripped on Tuesday, just hours before the heaviest April snowfall in 32 years.

The damage caused the temporary closure of the Leeds Road facility after the interior of the building was damaged.

The complex boasts several sports pitches as well as a clubhouse with bars, meeting rooms and a snooker room.

It used to be the Syngenta Sports Club, for former employees of the giant chemical firm, and many of them remained members.

Huddersfield Town Chief Executive, Nigel Clibbens, said: “This is really disappointing for everyone concerned and the actions of these thieves are deplorable.

“Canalside is a facility for the use of our community and their actions mean that our members – and we have 2,000 of them – cannot use the facilities.

“It is a real kick in the teeth at a time when we are looking to build better facilities for everyone to share in. Sadly we are not the first to be hit and no doubt we won’t be the last. The metal is probably worth a few pounds but the damage is a lot more.

“Canalside is covered by an extensive CCTV system and we are working with the police to identify the culprits.

“I would urge anyone with any information about the theft to contact the club so that we can pass it onto the police.”