A POPULAR pensioner who voluntarily sweeps the streets of Darlington town centre has had his bicycle stolen.

Peter Woodmansey, 77, who received a Star Radio award this summer for his community efforts, had his £900 bicycle stolen from the porch of his flat, despite it being locked up.

It is believed the thief took the bike from the property on Dinsdale Crescent between 11am and 11.30am last Thursday.

It is a very distinctive Charge Juicer bicycle with a red frame, blue handlebars and eye-catching red, white and blue mudguards.

Mr Woodmansey said: “I have only had it for four months.

“It was locked up, chained to the sill, but when I went to get it all that was left was the broken chain and the seat cover.”

Mr Woodmansey worked for Darlington Council for 35-years and since his retirement 12-years-ago he continued to clean and maintain streets in the town centre, making him a popular local figure.

Anybody with information aboout the theft, or the bicycle's current whereabouts is asked to contact Darlington Police on 101.