A community leader has voiced his anger at thieves who stole £500 of equipment belonging to a group that provides lifesaving services to thousands of beach-goers.

Tendring District Council’s Seafront Team has been forced to move all of its valuable items from the boathouse on Lower Promenade, Frinton-on-Sea, after the raid, which happened overnight on Monday.

The thieves also caused extensive damage after they got into the property through the roof before making off with two binoculars, worth £200, and tool kits worth £300.

The team patrols the seafront area of Frinton during the summer and deals with a range of issues including rescues from the sea, first aid and giving general safety advice.

Nick Turner, district council cabinet member for environment and coast protection, blasted the thieves saying he was angry and disappointed by the break-in.

He added: “Our seafront teams do a first class job and offer an excellent service to both residents and visitors at our main holiday beaches in Tendring.

“I find it deplorable that their equipment, which can be used to help save lives, is stolen and I urge anyone with any information to come forward to help us catch those responsible.

“This matter has been reported to the police and they will be visiting the scene of the crime to investigate.

“This break-in has not affected our service to the public and the team have carried on while the roof is being repaired – it is very much business as usual.”

The theft happened after staff locked up for the night and would have taken place between 5pm on Monday and 11am on Tuesday.

Mr Turner has urged people who saw anything suspicious in the area to contact either Essex Police, on 101, or Tendring District Council.