THOUSANDS of pounds of lifesaving equipment has been stolen from a club in Christchurch by heartless thieves.

Much of the equipment taken had just been donated to Christchurch Life Saving Club, who rely on donations from the community.

The club, which is located near Steamer Point, was targeted overnight on Tuesday, with padlocks broken on gates and doors to gain access to the premises and storage container.

Five new junior Nipper race boards, worth around £350 each, were among the haul, as well as an 18-month old Tohatsu IRB 25HP outboard motor, valued at around £3,000.

The club are now unable to use their boat, just as the training season begins.

The petty cash box, thought to contain between £30-£50 was also stolen.

In total, including other pieces of equipment, the value of the good taken is believed to be around £6,000.

The club are now appealing for people to keep their eyes peeled for the distinctive boards, decorated a vibrant black and red check and tiger print.

Club committee member, Richard McWilliam, said they had been left "devastated" by the break-in.

"We're just gutted. Our long-term members can't remember us ever being targeted before", he said.

"The real heart-breaking thing is that we are a charity-run club.

"We rely on donations and grants but we also raise money for other charities as well through events.

"The boards which were stolen were brand new and the youngsters were so looking forward to using them.

"This is a club for the children; we take them from seven upwards and a lot of them become RNLI lifeguards."

PC Steve Boston said: “This is a local club which provides a lifeguard and first aid service to beach users and this incident has caused them major disruption.

“The money for the practice boards had recently been donated to the club by Conception and JP Morgan and the club are eager to get them back so they can continue their good work.

“These are very specialist pieces of equipment and we would be interested to hear from anyone who may have been offered these boards or the outboard engine for sale.

“It is likely the offenders would have used a car or van to move the large and heavy items from the scene.

Witnesses and anyone with information should call Dorset Police on 101 quoting incident number 13:394.