VANDALS tossed life rings into the river and ripped down fencing keeping swans protected during the bird flu outbreak.

Thugs have ripped down the fences which are currently keeping swans away from people amid the avian flu outbreak in Worcester.

Life-saving equipment has also been thrown into the river at some point last night (Tuesday).

Mark Broomfield discovered the vandalism this morning (Wednesday).

He said: “I spend a lot of time walking along the river, and this isn’t the first time that I have witnessed vandalism.

"Having fallen in the river as a young boy, destruction of lifeguards is something that always angers me.

"The riverside is a great community asset that is maintained to an incredible standard by the authorities.

"It is enjoyed by us all and there is very little we have to do except enjoy it in peaceful contemplation and remove our rubbish.

"This however, appears to be a difficult set of instructions for some.

"The workers will be back out soon, and shortly it will appear that nothing was ever wrong. Let’s just hope that no one needs rescuing in the meantime.”

Mr Broomfield reported the vandalism to the city council.

A Worcester City Council spokesman said: “The presence of avian flu in Worcester has been confirmed and the fencing at the swan sanctuary has been put in place in an effort to prevent the public from coming into contact with the birds at that location.

"This will reduce the potential for walkers, cyclists or their dogs to accidentally spread the disease.

"We have acted quickly to repair the vandalism to the fencing at the site today.”

Group commander George Marshall of Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service said: “If you see someone struggling in water please call the Fire Service and do not go in after them.

“Lifebuoys are a great way to assist a person struggling to stay afloat in water and at risk of drowning. In an emergency situation, a lifebuoy should be thrown to the casualty by someone on dry land, without putting themselves at risk.

“In the event of an emergency, if lifebuoys are present they should be in good condition and available for immediate use.   

"If anyone considers misusing, damaging or removing a lifebuoy I would ask them to stop and think that this might be needed to save someone’s life – possibly even their own or a close friend or family member. 

“Please respect the safety facilities provided to keep everyone safe.”