THOUSANDS of pounds worth of kayaks have been stolen from a Southampton activity centre that has been repeatedly targeted by thieves.

The team at Woodmill Outdoor Activities Centre have been left "disheartened" after criminals made off with £10,000 worth of kayaks.

Three people were seen breaking into the boating cage and taking the kayaks on Monday, June 13.

The incident happened at around 9pm with police confirming that eight boats were stolen.

Active Nation manages the leisure facilities for Southampton City Council and has recently been victim to "unprecedented amounts" of vandalism, theft and break-ins.

The team said that outdoor equipment is often "inaccessible for many families, especially with the rising cost of living".

They say that, as a charity, the cost of replacement and maintenance caused by criminals "reduces the amount of social good it can do within communities".

A spokesperson from Active Nation added: "Delivering affordable activities, utilising a wide range of equipment such as the recent items which have been stolen from us again, allows us to work with the diverse range of communities within Southampton."

They said: "Our teams are passionate about what they do and thrive in delivering top-class outdoor activities.

"Thefts such as these do nothing but dishearten the team and make it harder to deliver our mission.

"We’re hoping that shouting about these thefts and break-ins, deters the perpetrators from repeat offending."

The centre offers families and school children the chance to "learn new skills in a safe environment".

A spokesperson from Hampshire Constabulary has confirmed that the force is investigating the burglary in Woodmill Lane last week.

They said: "Three people were seen forcing entry to the boating cage and taking the boats.

"Enquiries are ongoing. Anyone with information should call 101, quoting the reference 44220235729."

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