Adapted bike stolen from 12-year-old boy

A brand new bicycle which had been specially adapted for a 12-year-old boy has been stolen from a garden shed.

The adapted 'specialized' black cross trail bike was taken from the shed at the side of a house in Queens Road between 8pm and 10pm last night (Thursday 1st August).

Dan Johnson, who was born with no left arm below the elbow, had only got the bike on Saturday. It was his first full sized bike and had been specially adapted for him so that all the gears and brake handles were on the right hand side and the left hand handle had the rubber grip removed to accommodate his attachment which enabled him to steer.

Dan's mum Georgie said "This is his first full sized bike and he was very excited to get it. He and I have ridden around the block and then he has been away staying with a friend this week so it couldn't be newer. We are all so upset that it has been taken. There were other bikes in the shed that were untouched so whoever took it clearly has an eye for quality (unfortunately...).

"I understand that bikes get stolen, but it was shut away, up a drive, not left out on display. It will have been obvious to whoever stole it that it was a special bike - and Dan is devastated to have lost it. We struggle to understand why anyone would target a bike used by someone who clearly needs it to be specially adapted."

If you have any information about this incident please contact Wilmslow Police on 101, quoting incident number 1113 1/8/2013.

Updated: 2nd August 8.48pm

I have added a second photo above showing what the bike looks like without the adaptations.

Dan's parents are offering a £50 reward for the safe return of the bike so if you know anything about this incident, or see a bike similar to the one above, contact the police on 101.