Vandals and thieves are putting swimmers in danger by targeting life-saving equipment on the River Thames, writes Nick Evans.

The Vale of White Horse District Council said it was increasingly concerned about the number of life-lines and buoys being vandalised or stolen along the Abingdon stretch of the river.

Ian Matten, parks manager at the Vale, said: "Since January we have had at least ten life buoys damaged or gone missing at strategic points along the river.

"We are concerned that, as the holiday season gets under way, people could drown because of the lack of life-saving equipment. "Although the equipment is checked regularly there may be an occasion when it is not available for use when needed."

Mr Matten added: "I would remind everyone that the life-lines and buoys are essential life-saving equipment and if anyone sees them being tampered with they should contact the police immediately."

A police spokesman added: "We fully support the council in its appeal.

"Such action is to be discouraged at all times, but particularly when lives are put in danger.

"We would appeal to anyone who witnesses vandalism or theft to contact us."