A RIVER tragedy could result if tough measures to halt persistent vandalism to lifesaving equipment are not put in place soon.

That's the warning from a Tenbury town councillor who is fed up with years of continued abuse of the riverside life-buoys.

The equipment is kept on the town side of the Teme, from the bridge to the Pagoda in the Burgage, with the town council responsible for its provision and maintenance.

The last few years have seen several buoys forced from their housing, dumped in the river, scattered across the Burgage, set on fire, or had their safety ropes cut.

They cost about £100 each and at least three have had to be replaced in recent months.

Others, which had floated downstream, have been rescued and replaced when possible.

"This has been going on for far too long and the vandals are getting away with it," said Councillor John Ryder.

"They are there for a purpose and removing or damaging them is dangerous to life and limb," he warned.

"People who like to walk by the river are being put at risk and, if something isn't done soon, we are going to see a tragedy.What is being done is a criminal offence.

Town clerk Pat Buckley said: "Important safety equipment is being thrown into the river and the parks and cemetery committee has been asked to investigate ways of securing the housings. Missing or damaged life belts puts lives at risk."