Bungling thieves let a stolen motorbike fall out of their van as they made their escape.
The botched theft happened as opportunist thieves tried to snatch the Triumph Trophy motorcycle from a driveway.
The large touring motorbike, which weighs more than half a tonne, was taken from a drive on Halifax Road at Hightown, Liversedge, between 9pm and 10.10pm on Sunday, December, 28.
The occupant or occupants of the van loaded the bike into the van via the side door but as they drove away it fell out, leaving it badly damaged.
Police have now released an image of the van they believe to be linked to the crime.
Pc Chris Birkenshaw, of Batley and Spen Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “The van used in this incident was quite distinctive with writing on the side panel which we believe reads ‘M Tomlinson’.
“The motorcycle was damaged but has been returned to its owner.”
Anyone with information about this theft or the van involved to contact Batley and Spen Neighbourhood Policing Team on 101.
