A THIEF ignored a boy's request not to steal his electric bike in Bournemouth town centre having broken off two locks.

The victim, a 14-year-old boy, double locked his bike to the railings outside the Real Greek in Exeter Crescent at the BH2 complex on Saturday, October 17.

He also removed the battery from the bike before leaving the area.

When he returned at around 3.50pm the teenager saw a man getting on the bicycle after both of the locks had been cut off.

The victim asked the man to stop, but he rode off into the gardens in the direction of Pier Approach.

The bike is a blue electric Decathlon Rockrider bicycle with pink detailing on it.

The man is described as white, aged in his 20s, with short dark hair and facial stubble. He was wearing a black Puffa-style jacket with black jeans.

Officers investigating the theft are appealing for anyone with information to come forward.

PC Kristy Heron, of Dorset Police, said: “We have now obtained a full account from the victim and an investigation is underway to identify the man who stole the bike.

“I am appealing to anyone who was in the area on the day and saw what happened to please get in touch.

“I am also keen to hear from anyone who may have seen a bike matching the description given for sale locally in unusual circumstances.”

Anyone with information should contact Dorset Police at dorset.police.uk, via email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55200156508. Alternatively, to stay 100 per cent anonymous, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or call Freephone 0800 555 111.