MULTIPLE life rings along Greenock’s coastline were found to have been vandalised during a recent inspection by the coastguard.

Greenock Coastguard Rescue Team say that they identified a number of damaged devices when they carried out checks on the life preservers during a routine patrol on Saturday.

They say that one device’s rope had been removed entirely, while another had been tied in knots.

(Image: Greenock Coastguard Rescue Team)

In a statement they added: “These are important lifesaving items we ask that you do not interfere with this equipment and only use them in an emergency.

"Remember the next life it saves could be yours.”

The lifesaving organisation regularly checks on local life belts to ensure their signage is up to date and that the correct grid reference is visible on them.

The coastguard are not responsible for the upkeep of the life rings and anyone who spots an issue with them should report it to either Inverclyde Council or Peel Ports.