A YOUNG boy has been left distraught after a thief stole his bike.

Alex Tait, eight, of Slaithwaite, lost his BMX bike to a thief as he played on Sunday.

He had been riding up and down a private lane near his home in Brook Terrace, Crimble.

The bike was stolen when he went back into his home.

Now the family have appealed for help in finding the bike.

Alex's mum, Sarah Tait, said: "He left it for only a few minutes and we did not worry, as it is such a quiet road.

"But someone obviously saw it and took the bike. Alex is very upset. He loved riding it."

Posters about the theft have been put up around the village. Miss Tait said the bike was a distinctive matt blue.

Anyone with information should phone the family on 01484 846449.