A VESPER scoter was broken beyond repair during an attempt to steal it by a man wearing a balaclava in Worcester.

Vickie Ravenhill, of Raglan Street, Barbourne, said her husband's scooter was badly damaged and the lock was cut in order to gain access to the vehicle.

A picture shows where the rope has been cut, with the combination lock still intact.

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Mrs Ravenhill said: "It happened on Monday at about 4.40pm. It was parked at the back of our house in a private car park in a designated space.

"They cut through heavy-duty lock and broke the kickstand. I think they were disturbed as the bike was dropped on its side.

"A few seconds later a man wearing a balaclava and backpack walked past our house and our neighbours let us know.

"The scooter is now unfortunately damaged to the point of not being repaired as the cost to repair is more than its value."

Mrs Ravenhill said that this is not the first time the scooter has been targeted by would-be thieves.

"This is the second time it’s happened as thieves attempted to take it last summer but couldn’t cut through the lock.

"The steering column last time was broken during the last attempted theft. Lock your motorbikes and scooters up as the thieves are about again.

"We have now had the scooter put away into storage. Make sure to check your bikes and scooters are locked away safely."

West Mercia Police was informed about the damage and attempted theft of the scooter, and are investigating the incident.

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A spokesperson for West Mercia Police said: "We received a report shortly before 5.30pm on January 2 of the attempted theft of a motorcycle from Raglan Street in Worcester.

"An investigation is ongoing."

To report a crime to West Mercia Police, you can either call 101 or use the online 'Tell Us About' form on the West Mercia Police website at https://www.westmercia.police.uk/tua/tell-us-about/.

Alternatively, if you are not comfortable with talking to the police directly, you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously by calling 0800 555 111 or by visiting the website at https://crimestoppers-uk.org/.