A "DISTINCTIVE" moto-cross bike was stolen from Worcester and police are now issuing a warning to bike owners.

The bike was taken from Carrock Fell, Warndon Villages between 4pm and 5pm Saturday .

"We cannot stress firmly enough the need for motor-cyclists to ensure that their bikes are made as secure as possible, whether left in garages, private gardens or when parked on the road," said a police spokesman.

"Whenever possible - and even when off the road in gardens or in garages - they should be secured with a stout chain and robust and secure lock.

"We understand that it is always tempting for owners who know they will be using their bikes again shortly to decide not to lock them up, but it makes real sense to ensure their bike is secure at all times when not in use."

The bike is a black Xsport 11o Pit pro bike, with gold coloured handlebars and red lettering on the body work.

The lettering is surrounded by a red flames design.

The bike has no number plate as it is not used on the road, and is used for field trials only.

It is described as being a "rare" one of its type, and there is believed to be only one other similar bike in the Worcester area.

Members of the public who may have witnessed anything suspicious in Carrock Fell on Saturday afternoon, or who may know of the whereabouts of this motocross bike, or who may be offered a bike answering this description, are asked to contact Worcester Police on 08457 444 888, quoting incident number 425S/120205.

Alternatively they may contact police through the confidential Crimestoppers phone line 0800 555111.