THE owner of a rare racing car, which was stolen last month, is offering a substantial reward for its safe return.

The green Lola Climax Mark 1 - once driven by Stirling Moss - was stolen from Steve Hyett's estate some time between Monday, October 20, and Wednesday, October 23.

Now Mr Hyett, of Broughton Green, near Droitwich, is so desperate to get the car back he is willing to pay £1,000 to the person who supplies information as to its whereabouts.

He has also appealed to the thieves who took the £80,000 vehicle to return it, as it would be almost impossible to sell.

"I believe the theft was accidental and those responsible are now at a loss as to what to do with the vehicle," said Mr Hyett.

"The car was in a white fully-enclosed trailer at the time of the theft, and I think this the target of the theft.

"There were a spate of thefts of trailers in the area at the time the car was taken, and I don't think the thieves realised what was inside.

"We asked police not to release the details of how valuable the car was in case the people who took it panicked and burnt or trashed it.

"But now the details are out, we would ask them to do the sensible thing and return it.

"The car is so rare, there is no way they would be able to sell it."

Built in 1960, the £80,000 car is one of only 14 in the world.

"It is worth a lot of money, but it's the car's sentimental value which has made me offer a reward," said Mr Hyett.

"The car has been in the family for 27 years and we have all become very attached to it."

Police are looking for a grey or blue old style Mark I or II Land Rover which was seen towing the trailer which contained the car.

The chassis number of the white tilt-bed trailer - valued at £3,000 - is 572 PRG.

Anyone with any information should call 08457 444888.