Masked raiders who robbed a cricket club at gunpoint after a Bradford Bulls charity cricket match were today condemned as "heartless".

As reported in later editions of yesterday's T&A, the three men burst into Scholes Sports and Social Club, in Cleckheaton, on Sunday night just after closing time.

A female steward, a customer and his two young sons were held at gunpoint while the club was robbed.

As well as the gun, the gang of three were wielding a hammer and a crowbar and made off with nearly £10,000 in bar takings, some of which was to go to the Bulls' charity.

The rugby league team's coach Brian Noble said: "This is an upsetting incident that has spoiled a good event. These people have stolen money that had been raised by good honest people for our Jack and Jill charity, ruining weeks of hard work and effort by organisers and all those involved.

"On behalf of Bradford Bulls I would urge anyone who has information to ring the police so these heartless people can be caught."

Police were called to the Scholes club ground at 11.15pm after the busy charity match. The two adults and the children, aged nine and 11, were led to the cellar and the steward was forced to open the safe. The alarm was raised minutes later.

The victims were too upset to speak about their ordeal.

DCI Tony Craven of Kirklees CID said: "This is a despicable act, to terrify and steal from people who were just trying to help others and had spent the day raising money for Bradford Bulls' Jack and Jill charity.

"I would appeal to anyone with information about this to examine their conscience and let the police know. The suspects have obviously given thought to the prospect of there being more money on the premises as a result of the event. They may have told someone of their plans or might talk about it afterwards.

"The whole Bulls team had been there yesterday, supporting the cause and ensuring everyone had a good time. It is appalling that the proceeds of a very successful day have been stolen, and particularly so in the violent method used."

Norman Russon, who organises events at the club, said the robbery had been "terrifying" and particularly distressing for the boys, aged nine and 11.

"It was chock-a-block all day with the queue for the bar stretching right across the room. The bar takings alone were about £4,500. It's probably the most we've ever taken in a day and was probably about £10,000 in total. They've completely wiped us out," said Mr Russon.

Two of the three robbers are thought to be Asian.

Police are appealing for anyone with information to call Dewsbury CID on (01924) 431085 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.