A TEN-year-old boy out riding with friends in Sherdley Park had his expensive bike stolen by a teenage thug.

Simon Lynskey, from Springpool, Sutton was playing with a group of pals in the park at about 2.30pm on Wednesday, June 7, when they were approached by two youths, aged about 18, who also had bikes. One of them asked Simon to get off his bike, then pushed him off and rode off on Simon's bike, followed by the other youth.

Simon's mum, Christine told the Star: "I couldn't believe it when he told me what had happened. He only got the bike at Christmas and it was really expensive. It is a green Guru suspension bike which is actually built to cover rough terrains. Until now he has only been on it a few times in our street, this was his first proper ride and he is really upset."

The youths were both white and slim with muscular builds and skinhead-style haircuts. The thief spoke with a Liverpool accent and was wearing a red T-shirt, white trousers and red-and-white Reebok trainers. The other youth wore a grey jumper and black trousers.

Anyone who witnessed the theft or has information about the bike's whereabouts can contact the St Helens Police Crime Management Unit on 0151 777 6969.