POOLE Lifeboat Station is pleading for thieves to stop breaking into their iconic collection box.

The collection box, first positioned outside the station in the 90s, has been broken into four times – with thieves using an angle grinder and bolt cutters to cut through the lock.

Money used from the collection box supports the crew’s lifesaving work and the station says it is hard to estimate just how much money has been taken over the years.

“Our iconic collection box that has sat outside our station since the 1990’s is where kind-hearted folk that pass by drop in a penny or two so that Poole lifeboat can launch their lifeboats, to help people and ultimately, to save lives at sea,” said a spokesperson.

“This year Poole lifeboat volunteer crew have launched 109 times, we are a charity and donated money enables us to this.

The lock, broken by thieves Picture: Poole Lifeboat Station

“Our volunteers work tirelessly, to keep being there, we train hard, we are always ready to launch, to rescue and to help those who need us.

“To keep finding our mine damaged is gut wrenching, we give all that we can and will always continue to do so.

“So, whoever is doing this, just stop, it is futile.”

They added: “As the money is donated voluntarily, it is difficult to give an accurate estimate of how much money has been stolen, but since you keep breaking in, there won’t ever be much in there, because we regularly empty it and take it to the bank.”