The vandalism of a community centre's defibrillator has prompted an appeal from a senior councillor.

Costessey representative Gary Blundell has asked those living near Poethlyn Drive if they see anyone playing with the vital piece of equipment to “leave it alone unless needed”.

It comes after the defibrillator was found smashed and damaged.

The Queen's Hills Community Centre defibrillator has been vandalisedThe Queen's Hills Community Centre defibrillator has been vandalised (Image: Gary Blundell)

The box which usually holds the unit had its hinges ripped off and the wires of the defibrillator had been pulled out, which could be dangerous if touched. 

"It's frustrating when something that saves lives is deliberately broken," Cllr Blundell said.

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"Hopefully, the unit still works and just needs a new secure box but I have no way to check that."

Gary Blundell stressed how important the device was for saving livesGary Blundell stressed how important the device was for saving lives (Image: Gary Blundell)

The device, which passes an electrical current through the body to restart a stopped heart, is one of three publicly available in Costessey. 

The others are at Breckland Hall and the Costessey Centre, Longwater Lane.

Cllr Blundell added: "Could I kindly ask if anyone sees anyone playing with the defibrillator at the community centre, please politely ask them to leave it alone unless needed.

"This piece of equipment has helped save lives a number of times."