Police have criticised "senseless" thieves and vandals for targeting defibrillators across Aberdeenshire.

Two pieces of life-saving equipment were vandalised in Newtonhill between September 26 and October 10 outside the town's Tesco supermarket and near a pharmacy on the Old Mill Road.

A defibrillator was also stolen from Udny Green on 13 September, following a similar incident of theft in Oldmeldrum on July 7.

Inspector Colin Taylor said: "This mindless act has compromised the safety of the community and could lead to loss of life.

"It is beyond belief that some would take this community-funded equipment and I am urging anyone with information to contact the police urgently on 101.

"We have carried out extensive enquiries and are continuing to investigate this senseless crime and that is why we are urging the public to come forward with any information."