A WORCESTERSHIRE charity is asking residents to protect their local canals after a recent spate of vandalism targeted safety fences along the Droitwich Barge Canal.
The Canal & River Trust made the appeal after planks were ripped off the fencing beside the historic waterway and thrown into the water.
They were built to protect weirs and culverts, which are essential to the smooth running of the canal, and are important measures to ensure the safety of people on the towpath.
The bill to repair the damage is expected to run into hundreds of pounds and the incident will lead to staff being diverted from other important frontline work.
Tim Booker, from the Canal & River Trust, said: “It’s really disappointing to see this kind of mindless vandalism on the canal.
“People might not realise these fences are there for a reason, and play an important role in protecting the canal, sparing a bit of space for wildlife and preventing accidents on the towpath.
“Given how many people really treasure the waterway in Droitwich, it’s a shame to see a few idiots spoil it for everyone else.
Tim said the charity has been in touch with the police.
He added: “I’d also like to appeal to everyone else on the waterway to keep an eye out for the canal and report anything suspicious they see.”
Visit www.canalrivertrust.org.uk for more about the Droitwich Barge Canal or to volunteer.
Witnesses or anyone with any information should call police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
