Damage has been caused to Sharpness Lifeboat Station after arrows were shot at the doors.

Several arrows narrowly missed damaging SARA'S (Severn Area Rescue Association) main lifeboat, the Pride of Sharpness, after penetrating the specialised marine cladding on the doors.

Police are now investigating after the damage was discovered yesterday (Sunday).

A post on the SARA Facebook page said: "Whilst attending station for some routine maintenance our crew were devastated to find that damage has been intentionally caused to the main boathouse doors on the keystone boathouse which houses our main lifeboat.

"An individual or group have decided to use the doors as target practice for a bow and arrows.

"Several extremely sharp arrow tips were found to have luckily missed the Pride of Sharpness, after penetrating the specialised marine cladding on the doors.

"With the force required to break through this material there is clearly a dangerous weapon in the hands of someone particularly irresponsible.

"The incident has been reported to the police and and we are asking for anyone who has seen anything suspicious over the last few weeks to come forward with information.

"We will be seeking pricing to replace the cladding which is not cheap. We are all very angry and disappointed by this mindless vandalism to our station that our volunteers work hard to maintain.

A spokesman for Gloucestershire police confirmed they were investigating reports of criminal damage to a property in Sharpness, which is believed to have happened in the last three weeks.

Anyone with information should contact the police quoting incident 145 of November 29, either through their website or on 101.