A CLYDEBANK youngster left in tears after the BMX bike he got for Christmas was stolen in front of his eyes has been given a new cycle by a local opticians.


Colin Crawford, 11, was distraught by the loss of his present and his family contacted the Post in a bid to help catch the culprit.


Now Specsavers in Clydebank has stepped in to give Colin a new bike after reading about his plight.


His mum, Jayne said: “It’s fabulous. It’s great what they have done. The wee guy is over the moon. It’s a really kind thing to do. I was quite surprised when they got in touch.


“We’ve had a great response from everybody and we’re delighted that everybody is behind us on it. So many family, friends and people in the local area have been sharing it on Facebook and giving their best wishes to Colin.”

She said the new bike had helped boost Colin's confidence after the shock of the theft.

Specsavers store director Charles Kinsey said: "We were all shocked to hear Colin’s story and wanted to do something to help.


"It’s such a horrible thing for someone to do and for it to happen so soon after Christmas makes it even worse.


"We try to be as active as possible in our local community and it’s important for us to show that we’re there for individuals and families who need a bit of help. We’re delighted to be making the donation."


Police are currently examining CCTV in a bid to trace the thief and stop him from targeting any other children.


The £200 BMX Voodoo bike was stolen when Colin went into the Hungry Bite shop in Dalmuir on Sunday, January 24 at around 12.10pm.


When he and when he came out, he saw a man stealing the bike.


The Our Lady of Loretto Primary School pupil shouted to let the thief know it was his, but the man ignored him and and rode off.


Colin’s family said he was “distraught” and in tears when he arrived home at Burns Street, Dalmuir, without the bike.


The suspect is described as 6ft, red-headed man, and thought to be in his late 20s or early 30s.


He was wearing grey shorts with a black section at the bottom and a grey jumper. He was also wearing glasses.


He was spotted with the bike later the same day at Dalmuir Park, heading towards Mountblow.


Anyone with information about the theft is asked to call Clydebank Police on 101.