HOLIDAYMAKERS and residents can rest assured this summer their boats and lifesaving equipment safely protected by a new scheme to deter marine theft.

The scheme involves marking vital marine vessels along the Tendring coastline belonging to the beach patrol, including jet-skis and rigid inflatable boats.

A forensic marking solution called SelectaDNA will identify the items using a safe and unique formula of synthetic DNA, UV tracer and microdots.

They are then registered to the owner on a secure, national police-approved database and warning signs are displayed to deter theft.

This will apply to other equipment at risk of being stolen such as trailers, fuel tanks, navigation systems and outboard engines - the most commonly stolen marine item.

The scheme is being initiated by Tendring Council and Seaxe Investigation and Training Consultants to counteract the rise in marine theft during the peak summer season.

Tendring Council's seafronts boss Nick Turner said: “Every year thousands of visitors come to our resorts at Clacton, Frinton, Walton, Dovercourt and Brightlingsea, and we employ a team of beach patrollers dedicated to keeping the seafront areas as enjoyable and safe as possible.

“This is only possible if we have all our vital equipment at hand, for immediate use when needed.

“The use of SelectaDNA will help us ensure our boats and equipment will be ready to deal with the 1,000-plus incidents we are likely to encounter by the end of the season.”