A BOY who had his bike stolen by an unscrupulous thief has been gifted a replacement by a charity.

It follows an incident last week in which a pedal cycle was stolen near to Marks and Spencer at The Forge in Stockton Heath.

It is believed the perpetrator cut through the bike lock at the shopping centre.

Cheshire Police says enquiries into the theft remain ongoing, but in the meantime, Walton Lea Partnership has provided a replacement bike to the 12-year-old victim.

On Thursday, the force’s Stockton Heath Police team said: “We have been out completing some enquiries in to the theft of a pedal cycle which happened outside M&S at The Forge earlier this week.

“On this occasion, it would appear that the lock has been cut.

“If you are locking your bike up while you are out and about, please consider using a robust lock such as a Sold Secure product.

“If anybody has any information which may assist us, please get in contact quoting IML-1795986.”

In an update over the weekend, officers added: “Earlier in the week, we made you aware of an incident at The Forge whereby a pedal cycle was stolen.

“Thanks to Walton Lea Partnership, we have been able to provide the 12-year-old victim with a replacement bike that he can use to carry on commuting to school.

“It is great when a plan comes together.”