West Leeds Activity Centre left devastated as canoes for vulnerable youngsters are stolen

Two of West Leeds Activity Centre's orange venture canoes were taken by thieves who cut through the carrying handle of the kneeling thwarts used for solo paddling.

The team at the centre said that they are "devastated" as they work "tirelessly with vulnerable children and young people".

Leeds City Council added that the work done by the centre means the recovery of the canoes is "vital".

Anyone with CCTV footage of surrounding areas or information about the location of canoes is asked to contact West Yorkshire Police quoting reference number 013210304797 "urgently".

West Leeds Activity Centre posted an appeal on social media to ask for help in finding the canoes.

It said: "Last night people came and stole two of our canoes - Two Orange Venture Canoes Stolen - the canoes have kneeling thwarts for solo paddling and were cut through the carrying handle by the thieves.

"If you have any CCTV in our area or see any suspicious activity please let us know urgently.

"The canoes are pictured on our Facebook page as well as below.

"We are devastated as we work tirelessly with vulnerable children and young people.

"Please can you resend this on all your networks."

A Leeds City Council spokesperson said: "We are aware of the theft of two Canadian canoes from West Leeds Activity centre and have informed the police who are currently investigating the incident.

"The recovery of these canoes are vital.

"They play an important role in the delivery of outdoor services and support to children and young people, some of whom are vulnerable and benefit greatly from the fantastic work of West Leeds Activity Centre.

"As part of the investigation we request that anyone with CCTV footage from the surrounding areas or information of the location of the canoes to contact West Yorkshire police via [email protected] or call the crime number via 013210304797."