A beach party has been organised by Sidmouth's Jurassic Paddle Sports to thank the community for its support after lifesaving equipment was stolen from the business.

On Sunday thieves destroyed a shed owned by the business and stole wetsuits, flags, buckets and a life-saving rescue tube. The damage and theft is estimated to have cost the business around £1,000.

A Crowdfunder page was set up by Sidmouth resident Charlie Williams last week to help Jurassic Paddle Sports, which provides unofficial lifeguard coverage for Sidmouth beach. So far the Crowdfunder page has raised more than £1,900.

Jurassic Paddle Sports' owner, Guy Russell, and Charlie Williams have organised a beach party on Saturday, August 24, to thank the community for its support.

Charlie said: "After a phenomenal response from the crowdfunding efforts of Sidmouth town, it has been decided by Jurassic Paddle Sports that the efforts of the town will be honoured with a beach party / get together located at Jurassic Paddle Sports.

"Guy is inviting anyone who has donated to the crowd funding project to have access to the water sports for free to show his appreciation for the donations."

The party starts at 12pm, a BBQ and soft drinks will be supplied, as well as music. Party-goers are encouraged to turn up in their 'brightest beach wear'.

Guy says he has been blown away by the support from the community and any money raised will all go towards providing lifesaving equipment for his lifeguard service, none of the money will be used to support his business.

Speaking after the theft Guy said: "People have far worse problems in life, it would be easy to get annoyed but it's not worth it.

"I'm disappointed but we'll find our feet again and maybe we'll run our business slightly differently. I'm trying to find the positives in life.

"All too often we worry about silly things in life and there are people out there with far worse problems."

The Crowdfunder page is still live, if you would like to donate click the red button below.