Thieves walked off with a three by nine metre gazebo which was put up in a field on the outskirts of March for shelter from the sun for a guiding it’s a knockout competition.

Cambs Times: Girlguiding It's a KnockoutGirlguiding It's a Knockout (Image: Archant)

Organisers set up the triple gazebo and other smaller tents at around 3pm at Fox’s Marina and walked back and forth carrying items needed for the evening turn event for 200 girls.

At about 5pm somebody spotted the £300 gazebo was gone.

Paula Syred, of Fox’s Marina, who has been involved with guiding in the area for 30 years, said: “Somebody spotted two men walking towards West End with what they thought was a giant white sheet. That was our gazebo. I can’t believe they took it in broad daylight from under our noses.

“It was bought earlier this year especially for events like this for shelter from the sun or rain.

Cambs Times: Girlguiding It's a KnockoutGirlguiding It's a Knockout (Image: Archant)

“On a plus side the girls still had a fantastic time and the community are rallying round to raise momey for a new one.”

March Mayor Councillor Rob Skoulding: “Despite this upsetting event, it was a great evening and all the children enjoyed themselves.

“The leaders give up so much time to put on these events for the children and are understandably extremely upset about what has happened.

“A few of us have started a collection for a replacement, if anyone wants to contribute, you can drop it into The Town Hall or give it directly to one of the leaders.”

Cambs Times: Girlguiding It's a KnockoutGirlguiding It's a Knockout (Image: Archant)