Pat Carlin of Foyle Search and Rescue inspects the damage to the boat
A DERRY river rescue charity say it is “overwhelmed” by the messages of support from the public after vandals damaged one of its boats.
Mindless thugs caused £5,000 of damage to one of their boats earlier this week putting lives at risk.
The Foyle Search and Rescue (FSR) boat, The Spirit of James, moored at Queens Quay, was damaged around 7 pm.
The Derry public has rallied behind FSR in their time of need as they know what a vital service it provides to those in the city who are distressed along the Foyle Bridge or enter the River Foyle
FSR say on its Facebook page: “The response and offers of help from the Public and individuals to one of our Charity’s boats being damaged has been overwhelming & humbling.
“This reaction can only reinforce the close links that Foyle Search & Rescue have throughout our Community.
“This unfortunate event has only hardened the resolve of our volunteers to continue with our ongoing searches and we will continue undeterred until closure can be found for the Family concerned.
“On behalf of everyone associated with Foyle Search & Rescue, Thank You for your continued support.”
FSR chairman Stephen Twells said the charity may now have to review its security measures.
Police are investigating the incident.
Mr Twells said he could not understand why the boat was targeted.
He said those responsible “didn’t think about was the potential impact this mindless act could have had on someone’s life, as well as the work we do.”
“This stupid act will not stop us delivering the lifesaving service that we have done for the last 25 years, not for one minute, or one day,” he added.
The FSR chairman said damage was also caused to “essential equipment” that was on the boat and said it was not the first time one of their boats had been damaged.
PSNI Sergeant Rainey said: “It is believed that £5,000 worth of damage was caused to a Foyle Search and Rescue boat during the incident.”
“I would appeal to anyone who witnessed the incident or has any information to contact police,” he said.
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