A KEEN mountain biker devastated by the loss of his custom-made bike is appealing for its return.

Gerry Davies, 55, of Gloucester Close, Malvern, says he has given up mountain biking for Lent as his £1,000 bike was taken on Shrove Tuesday.

As it was unsecured on the driveway of a house in Wilton Road, he is unable to claim its cost on his insurance.

But it also has sentimental value. He said: "You get attached to these things. It's been with me on lots of trips to mountains and wild places."

Mr Davies, a former bike specialist for Malvern Halfords, was just six feet away from his bike when it was taken, repairing a friend's bike inside the garage.

He heard gravel crunching on the drive and ran out of the garage but, because he was wearing rigid cycling shoes, he could not run fast.

"The guy disappeared off into the distance and that was it," he said.

"You obviously go through a rollercoaster of emotions. I keep thinking 'what if I'd locked it up or gone round in the car instead of riding round?'"

He added that getting angry and bitter about losing his bike would probably cause him more long-term harm than replacing it.

The bike may have been taken apart and its parts sold off but Mr Davies still hopes to get it back.

He said there were some witnesses to the theft and has reported the theft to police, although no-one has been to see him.

A red and black Carrera Fury, the bike has black forks, disc breaks, full suspension and a Fox rear shock. Anybody who has seen it or has information about the theft can call police on 08457 444888.