A DINGHY used to rescue drivers and narrowboat owners near Didcot during the floods has been stolen.

Paul Otter, from Long Wittenham, said the blue and orange fibreglass boat had been used to help people in the village when the Thames was flooded last month and in November.

An emergency life ring was also taken with the boat when it was stolen from the side of the main road running through the village on Friday or Saturday.

Narrowboat owner Mr Otter, left, a former chairman of the parish council, said: “I bought the dinghy for about £30 a few years ago and would usually leave it by the side of the main road opposite Lower Farm.

“There are about 17 narrowboats moored in the area and the dinghy was useful for helping people in moored boats, or drivers who were stuck in flood water.

“The dinghy didn’t cost much but it was useful for the village and it could cost a lot more to find a replacement.”

Thames Valley Police spokesman Rhianne Pope appealed for anyone with information to contact Pc Janine Smallbone at Didcot police station via the police enquiry line, 101.