"Foolish" vandals have been criticised for removing lifebouys from their casings at Ballycastle seafront, less than a week after an 11-year-old girl drowned at a north coast beach.

Visitors to the seafront on Sunday morning found the lifebuoys hanging from a sculpture, the Ballycastle Chronicle reported.

It is believed the lifesaving aids were moved at some point on Saturday night.

Independent councillor Padraig McShane was called to the scene early on Sunday morning.

He said: "It is almost impossible to contemplate what is going through someone's mind while they are engaged in these acts.

"The clear impression conveyed would indicate those responsible have no moral or intellectual compass.

"Are they aware of what took place less than a week before at a beach no more than ten miles from where they carried out this mindless act?

"While it is always hoped this type of equipment is never required, it is essential that it is in place should the need arise."

Moyle District Council chairman Sanrda Hunter also condemned the act.

She said: "This type of vandalism makes you wonder what is actually going through these people's minds.

"In this day and age when we are trying to make more areas around the marina more accessible to the public, foolish stunts like this make you wonder if it is feasible."

11-year-old Bethany Cousins died after getting into difficulty at Bushfoot Strand, Portballintrae on Sunday July 15.

(NE)