A family has made a heartfelt appeal for the return of a bike stolen from their house saying it's sentimental value makes it irreplaceable.

Burglars struck at a house in Smithills taking a number of items including 

the bike which was a gift from a grandfather to his grandson.

The grandfather has since died and now police have released a picture of the bike in the hope it can be found and returned.

Now the family, through The Bolton News, are appealing for the safe return of the bike.

Four bikes were stolen in the burglary.

They spoke about about the horrible experience and the hurt it has caused them.

Mum Lucy Gornall said: “They have not only put my family in distress, they have taken something so special to us.

“Yes, they stole four bikes and tools, a brand new sink in the box and believe it or not my son’s Nike Air Jordans! 

“But one particular bike, an old Orbea Black with lime green writing was stolen. This is an irreplaceable item as it was my son's bike gifted after his late wonderful grandad Anthony Gornall passed away.

“We want this bike back more, as a family we've been hit hard and this means so much.”

A spokesman for the police said: “On the 19/11/22 a burglary occurred at an address on Limefield Road, Smithills, Bolton.

“During this burglary two pedal bicycles, two electric bicycles, power tools and other items were stolen.

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“One of the pedal bicycles is of great sentimental value to the family – a gift from grandfather to grandson before he passed away.

“We are appealing to the public to help reunite this sentimental bicycle, as per photograph, with the family.”

“Please share any information you may have regarding the location of this bicycle with the police by ringing 101 and quoting crime re CRI/06KK/0036657/22, or anonymously via independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org./”