A bike worth thousands of pounds has been stolen.

A man’s ‘Giant Anthem’ mountain bike – worth £2,500 –was taken between 12.30am and 12.45am on Sunday, from the back garden of a house in Victoria Road, Hitchin.

The owner was at home at the time and heard a noise, which possibly disturbed the offender.

The bike, which has been modified by its owner, has some distinguishing features including a gold coloured renthal fatbar lite handlebar and most of the main frame and rear triangle has had green and silver accents sprayed with white paint.

PCSO Sarah Brown is investigating and said: “This is a unique bike because of all the modifications which have been made. Understandably the owner is keen to have it returned to them and I would ask anyone who has seen or been offered this bike for sale to contact me with information. I would also like to hear from anyone who saw or heard anything suspicious in the area at that time, or anyone who knows who is responsible.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact PCSO Brown at Hitchin Police Station via police non-emergency number 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.