THIEVES stole equipment and caused thousands of pounds worth of damage to a RNLI Lifeguard Unit in Gorleston.
The window was smashed, the shutter destroyed and four hand-held radios stolen by thieves last night.
Estimated costs to replace the window, the shutter and buy a replacement stock of radios is likely to be upwards of �2,000.
Stuart Thompson, RNLI Lifeguard Manager, said: “I am deeply saddened that thieves have targeted a charity in this way.
“We offer a life-saving service, looking out for beach goers and ensuring their safety. For people to commit such mindless vandalism is simply outrageous.
“We will now have to use public donations to replace the stolen equipment and pay for the repairs. This is money which could have been used to assist with rescues or for life-saving equipment.”
Lifeguards covering beaches in the Great Yarmouth, Gorleston and Hemsby responded to 100 incidents and assisted 104 people in 2010.
Anyone with information about last night’s vandalism is asked to contact 0845 456 4567 and ask for Norfolk Police or ring Crime stoppers on 0800 555 111.
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