Antisocial and moronic vandals have struck once again by destroying, of all things, lifesaving equipment along the banks of the river Boyne.

Normal people can have no idea what thrill these miscreants derive from constantly attacking lifebelts that could save someone’s life, possibly even their own.

Louth County Council has issued an appeal for witnesses who may have seen or who know who is damaging and destroying this lifesaving equipment to report this to An Garda Síochána.

This follows the latest incident overnight where Louth Fire Services were called to a burning life ring at Horse Lane Drogheda, which unfortunately was completely destroyed. The incident was reported to the Gardaí.

“This is the 14^th reported incident of damage or destruction to life rings in the Drogheda area this year” said a Council spokesperson.

“On the 6^th of June and the 13^th of June 2023, two separate major acts of vandalism led to nine life rings, rope units and containers being extensively damaged at the Skatepark, St Dominic's Park and River Walk at Horse Lane. On four other occasions life rings were thrown into the river or cut up.

“The destruction of this equipment not only potentially endangers life, but also incurs a significant cost to repair or replace. “

Water Safety Officer Mark Kimmins reminded people that on average 105 drownings occur in Ireland every year, and urged anybody who may witness such incidents to report them to their nearest Garda Station.