A BOAT offering affordable access to the river and countryside for people in Langport and Huish Episcopi has been vandalised.

The Duchess of Cocklemoor was badly damaged during an incident while moored at the Somerset Community Rowing Club, in Huish Drive, Langport.

Believed to have been some time between the afternoon of Tuesday, July 22, and 9am the following day, the attack left the vessel partially sunk and badly damaged.

An Avon & Somerset Police spokesperson said: “Police have received a report of criminal damage leading to the sinking of a historic boat moored at Somerset Community Rowing Club, Huish Drove, Langport.”

The Duchess of Cocklemoor was badly damaged by vandals while moored in Langport

“The Duchess of Cocklemoor – a former ferry built in 1908 – had recently been restored,” they went on.

“If you have any information about those responsible, please call 101 and give the reference 5225207732.”

People can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Meanwhile, the people of Langport and Huish have rallied in a bid to right the Duchess – and get her back out.

Owner of the vessel, Ian MacNab, said the “wave of Love and support for our old boat” following the incident was “quite overwhelming”.

“The community of Langport and Huish Episcopi are just amazing, as well as friends and supporters from further away,” he added.

“Just a huge thank you to all who contributed to the raising and fixing of the boat and for the ongoing repairs, to enable us to continue with our work providing affordable access to our lovely river and countryside, for the wellbeing and enjoyment of all.”

READ MORE: Crime news from your Somerset Leveller