DRUNKEN louts and vandals have risked the lives of other Glaswegians by throwing dozens of lifebelts into the River Clyde over a two day period.

Glasgow Humane Society found almost 50 of the life-saving devices floating along the river in the last week – and have hit out at those responsible for the careless act.

George Parsonage, of the Glasgow Humane Society, said: “This is the worst I have ever known, it is shocking.”

Most of the lifebelts are being vandalised in Glasgow city centre area of the river. The society, however, has spotted an increase with big events such Celtic football matches taking place in the East End.

Although the season is now at an end, their plea to football supporters and anyone attending a big event close to the river is to leave the lifebelts in tact.

George said: “Over the years the number of people I have taken out the water with green and white hoops on them has been horrendous.

“You get an event say, that means there is crowds going along the East End of Glasgow, you’ll find that all the lifebelts are in the water.

“They have got to remember it could be their mother, friend or fellow football supporter.”

Glasgow Human Society says there is around 600 lifebelts on the River Clyde from Carmyle to Yoker. Those lifebelts are funded by Glasgow City Council.

George said: “I think we are one of the safest cities in the whole of Europe when it comes to water safety.”

Despite this, over 300 lifebelts, however, have been taken out of the water so far this year.

George said: "When there is a big event and people have been drinking, this is when it happens.

"We have taken out something like over 300 lifebelts this year."

In the last week, a person was rescued from the water using a lifebelt. They held onto the lifebelt until the rescue boat arrived and got them out.

George said: "If they hadn't had a life belt, that person might not be here."

He added: "The lifebelts over the years have saved hundreds and hundreds of people. I personally have used the lifebelt a dozen times to swim out and get someone out the water.

"People just don't stop think."

For more information on the society's work, visit visit http://www.glasgowhumanesociety.com.