TWO racing karts owned by Colne Valley youngsters have been stolen by thieves.

Intruders broke into an industrial unit in West Slaithwaite and stole the karts which are powered by 60cc engines, have a top speed of 60mph and together are worth about £1,500.

They belong to 11-year-old Ben Lockwood and eight-year-old James Lingard, who both live in Marsden.

Ben has been kart racing for more than two years and is a member of three Cadet Kart Clubs based at racing circuits in Lincolnshire and Sunderland.

These are East Kirby and Strubby in Lincolnshire and Walden Law in Sunderland.

His dad, David, said: "It was terrible having to tell the boys the karts had been stolen.

"We just want them back and I'm offering a reward to anyone who can give information leading to their return."

He added: "Both boys are following the dreams of their Formula One idol, Jensen Button, who started his racing career in the same class of karts."

The break-in was discovered on Thursday morning and it means the boys' hopes of racing this weekend have been wrecked.

Ben's kart has a gold chassis, red bodywork and the number 28 on it.

James's is all-black with the number 27 on it.

The karts are designed for youngsters aged from eight to 12.

The thieves also stole spares from the industrial unit, including a dozen wheels.

Anyone with information should contact Huddersfield police helpdesk on 01484 436659 or Mr Lockwood on 07766 077255.