VITAL equipment has been stolen from an RNLI lifeboat which has been left damaged after being targeted by thieves.

Police are appealing for information after the incident involving the lifeboat in Ferry Road, Hartlepool and stole vital equipment.

Between 10pm on Thursday June 23 and 5pm yesterday (Saturday, June 25), forced their way into the vessel, damaging a stainless steel access ladder in the process. Various items were stolen, all essential to the vessel and its crew and extremely costly to replace. They were: * a Marlin spike which is a 10” metal spike with a tapered end.

* two Gerber hatchets - stainless steel with a black rubber handle and measuring 14” in length.

* a pair of Bynolt binoculars in black plastic with a white lifeboat transfer on them.

* a pair of night vision binoculars in black plastic with a handle coming out of the centre of the base.

* a steering hatch tool which is a 12” silver metal shaped like a hook.

PC Claire McMahon, of Hartlepool Police, said: “This theft will shock all right thinking residents who know all too well the value of our local lifeboat service.

“To target an operational vessel operated by a charity whose purpose is to save lives beggars belief and I would urge anyone who has information which could lead to those responsible to contact police as quickly as possible. Anyone with information should call Hartlepool Police on 01642 302178 or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.