SEA CADETS and volunteers across the South coast are being urged to look out for thieves who raided two Hampshire clubs.

Romsey Sea Cadets have issued an appeal for funds after their entire fleet of kayaks and paddles was stolen.

Four red Dagger GT 7.8 kayaks, a blue Dagger Juice kayak and paddles were taken from the Romsey Sea Cadets storage unit in Southampton Road.

The burglary meant the group had to pull out of the Romsey Carnival at the last minute after their equipment had been stolen between 9.30pm on July 18 and 1pm on July 21.

Now, the unit has launched an online donations page to raise £3,000 to replace the stolen boats.

It follows a similar incident ten days ago when thieves took an outboard motor secured to a pontoon at Southampton Sea Cadets’ compound.

Sea Cadets and volunteers are being urged to double-check their own security, in the wake of these two thefts.

Director of Sea Cadet Learning at the Marine Society and Sea Cadets (MSSC), Heather Williams said: “This is desperately sad news for two units who do immensely rewarding work in their local communities.

“While it’s certainly the case Romsey and Southampton have done everything they can, I’d urge everyone to take extra precautions to protect their equipment at the current time.”

Zoe Bell, who works at Romsey Sea Cadets, said: "We have had some very generous donations from nearby companies and other canoes enthusiasts; our GoFundMe page has been up for a week now.

"It has made me feel very blessed and humbled that people are willing to give to charity and help out.

"Myself and another member of staff are using our personal equipment and boats to make sure we can get as many people out on the water."

Zoe said the youth group has talked to their insurers about the theft, but does not think they will "get the full amount" they need.

She added: "I just want to say a big thank you to people who have shown their support."

As previously reported in the Romsey Advertiser, Cllr Dorothy Baverstock, who represents Romsey Cupernham on the borough council, said she was "speechless" the youth group were targeted.

Anyone with information on the burglary should contact Hampshire police on 101, quoting 44190254979.