Appeal after motorbike theft

On the evening of January 1, Paul Middleton, of Wilton, was visiting a friend’s house in Bradford Road, opposite Wilton Park, when he noticed his motorbike was missing from outside.

It was a blue and white Yamaha 1245 motorbike, registration YE03 XGL, and had last been seen at about 10pm.

He said he had saved up for ages to buy the bike, worth between £1,600 and £1,700, and just wanted it back.

Mr Middleton said buying another vehicle with the insurance money wouldn’t be the same.

He said: “They can give me a Ferrari but I don’t want a Ferrari, I want my bike back.”

A police spokesman said the motorbike was reported stolen in the early hours of January 2.

He said: “Enquiries are ongoing and any witnesses, anyone who sees the bike or is offered it for sale, should contact the Batley NPT via 101.”