A motorcyclist who travelled around America on his Harley Davidson has made a heartfelt plea to the burglars who stole his beloved bike.

The West Wickham man, who does not want to be identified for fear of retribution, is appealing for the culprits to return his £15,000 bike after it was taken from a property in Purley. He says not only is the vehicle financially precious but it has great sentimental value as well.

The bike had been left in a residential garage on Riddlesdown Road overnight where the carpenter had been carrying out some work on a client's property.

At about 3pm last Thursday (November 15) a group of men were seen breaking into the garage and lifting the motorcycle into a blue Nissan van.

The bike's owner said: "These days there are more bikes stolen than sold and in my heart of hearts I know I probably won't get it back.

"I love that bike. Two years ago I travelled around America for six weeks on it, so it's got great sentimental value."

Anyone with information should contact PC Phil Palmer on 020 8649 1377.

November 21, 2001 16:00