No doubt those responsible for removing the flood barrier at Risinghurst, Oxford, thought it was a big joke.

Or perhaps some DiY enthusiast saw it as a cheap and easy way of getting some wood. Whoever it was, it was a thoughtless act.

The barrier is designed to protect homes in the area, particularly the Knights House flats which were flooded in April.

Admittedly, it wasn't much use then because it had been locked in the open position and in the panic which followed heavy rain, no-one could remember where the key was.

Now such basic problems have been overcome, the barrier should be doing its job of keeping floodwater away -- but for the intervention of pranksters or thieves.

The residents affected by the spring flood have still not been able to return to their homes. They have suffered enough, without idiots adding to their plight.

We hope those who have taken the barrier will return it quickly.