Lifesaving equipment at a park keeps being stolen and vandalised.

Worthing Borough Council has warned people’s lives could be put at risk if throwlines around Brooklands Lake continue to be damaged.

Throwlines can be used by the public if someone is in difficulty in the water. There are nine throwlines and two life rings at Brooklands, which are placed around the lake and stream.

The council has expressed its frustration and said it is working with Sussex Police to put a stop to the acts.

“We’re frustrated to share that life-saving equipment located around Brooklands Lake is being repeatedly vandalised or stolen by visitors,” a council spokesman.

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“Our parks team have identified that the Brooklands throwlines are being damaged or taken altogether, meaning the kit could either be faulty or missing in the event of an emergency.

“Damaging or stealing throwlines are reckless acts that could potentially cost someone their life, so we are asking for your help in reporting any sightings or information to Sussex Police. Replacing the damaged or stolen equipment at Brooklands has cost us close to £2,000 in just a matter of weeks.

“We are taking this very seriously and will work with the police to prevent further loss or damage. If convicted, the courts could sentence anyone found tampering with the equipment up to six months imprisonment and/or a fine.”

The council has asked if anyone sees life-saving equipment being vandalised at Brooklands to dial 999 and report it to the police and to notify the councils of any damage by emailing environmentalservices@adur-worthing.gov.uk.