Police have appealed for witnesses after a group of youths were seen punching a defibrillator in Flintshire.

Police said the males were seen punching the life-saving medical apparatus, smashing its glass cabinet, which is located on the Mold Tennis Centre and Bowls Club building.

The incident occurred at approximately 4.30pm on December 3.

The defibrillator has now had to be removed while it is repaired, Mold Town Council has said.

Jane Evans, Mold Town Council events and community engagement officer, said: “I am saddened to hear about the damage to the outside defibrillator cabinet at the tennis club. 

"Due to the damage the defibrillator has had to be removed and will not be accessible 24 hours as previously until the cabinet is repaired.

"It is important that people are aware of what these units do, they help save lives and in the event of a cardiac arrest, the ambulance service will direct people to the nearest defibrillator unit so it may be used until medical help arrives. 

"Time is of the essence when dealing with a cardiac arrest.

"This mindless act of vandalism could potentially put lives at risk."

Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101, quoting reference number X174483.