A spate of thefts and vandalism on the beach near Walmer Green in Deal has left boat owners furious at the police.

They claim their pleas for officers to step-up patrols to stop the troubles have been ignored.

Lifelong fisherman Derek Goodban, 62, of Canada Road, who is now retired, said: “We have our own little community around our boats.

“We are part of the town’s heritage and proud to be part of the beach history, but we are disillusioned with the police.

“They don’t mind parking in their cars to watch the traffic and catch speeding drivers on The Strand, but we never see patrols except when the fair is on Walmer Green.”

Mr Goodman, who owns two traditional wooden boats on the beach, said he was speaking on behalf of other boat owners.

“I have had a £1,000 outboard motor stolen from the wheelhouse and one night a few month ago nine sheds were broken into. Fishing equipment was stolen and we have also had electrical equipment taken. We have all had enough.

“We see police cars in Deal town centre in the evenings, why can’t we have patrols at night? We are ignored.”

Sgt Guy Thompson said: “We are aware of the problems that are occurring on the beach at Walmer and we regularly patrol this area.

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