PEOPLE who caused a boat to become lodged under a Poole bridge by setting it loose from its moorings have been slammed for the “reckless act of vandalism”.

A group of four youths who breached a security fence at Poole Quay and set the Rough Ryder workboat adrift at around 7pm on Friday, January 29.

The vessel collided with an RNLI launch before getting stuck under Poole Lifting Bridge.

Police have launched an investigation into the incident and area appealing for anyone with information to come forward.

Captain Brian Murphy, harbour master, said: “Our coded workboat, Rough Ryder, was purposely set adrift by four individuals on Friday evening around 7pm.

“What might seem like a simple case of ‘tomfoolery’, could have had very serious consequences affecting the safety of life and protection of the environment.

“Thankfully nobody was injured and no pollution incident occurred.

"However, the safety of navigation was affected and an emergency response was required to recover the vessel which had become lodged under Poole Bridge.

“This reckless act of vandalism resulted in significant damage and costs.

“Rough Ryder is currently out of service. We are working closely with Dorset Police to apprehend the culprits and any information should be reported to Dorset Police or to Poole Harbour Control on 01202 440230.”