A rowing club has been left devastated after vandals dragged one of its boats from its racking and left it hanging over a quay wall, causing thousands of euro worth of damage.

Carrick Rowing Club said the serious act of vandalism took place on Friday night, with its Club Octuple removed from its racking before being dragged across the ground towards the river.

The boat was then left hanging over the quay wall, with the club saying the incident caused substantial damage to the entire underside of the boat as well as severe damage to the bow section.

In a post on social media, the club said: ‘We are devastated to report a serious act of vandalism that took place overnight at Carrick Rowing Club, causing thousands of euro worth of damage.’

They added: ‘Sometime last night, our Club Octuple was removed from its racking and dragged across the ground toward the river and left hanging over the quay wall. This deliberate action has caused substantial damage to the entire underside of the boat, along with severe damage to the bow section.’

The club said the damage has left the boat unusable and represents a major blow to its members and athletes.

‘Equipment like this represents countless hours of hard work, fundraising, and community support, making this damage a massive blow to our rowing club and athletes as it is now un-usable in view of the structural damage,’ the club said.

‘This is all the more heartbreaking taking place just two weeks after our annual regatta in the town.’

Carrick Rowing Club is now appealing for anyone who may have information about the incident to come forward.

‘If you were in the area overnight and noticed any suspicious activity, saw anyone in the club grounds, or have any information please contact Carrick-on-Shannon Garda Station who are currently investigating the incident: 071 965 0510,’ the club said.

They also urged members of the public to share their appeal in the hope that those responsible can be identified.

‘Please share this post to help us spread the word and find those responsible. Thank you for your continued support.’