88-year-old Nottingham man appeals for return of vintage bike he'd had since 1949

A Nottingham woman has appealed for the return of her 88-year-old father’s vintage bike, which was taken from a garden shed on December 23 or 24. Elizabeth Lovatt said her father had owned the "faithful friend" since 1949, riding more than 300,000 miles on it.

Writing on Facebook, Lovatt said: “The picture below shows a "Rotrax" bronze/brown frame with dropped handlebars and Reynolds 531 tubing.

“My dad has had this faithful friend since 1949, riding over 300,000 miles on it and maintaining it with the utmost care. The bicycle represents a huge amount of personal cycling history which is absolutely irreplaceable and our family would be immensely grateful for any information which may lead to the return.

“My dad still rides the "Rotrax" and it would be amazing if he could be reunited with his bike.”

She told the BBC: "The Rotrax is special because it was a first class lightweight frame especially suited to my dad. It was a tremendous shock to see the shed door forced open and discover the theft."

The Facebook appeal has been shared over a thousand times. In an update, Lovatt added: “I am so very appreciative of all the positive messages and support/shares which have followed my original post. My father has been greatly cheered by the kindness expressed by such a large group of people.

“We are still hopeful that this lovely bicycle may yet return to its rightful home so please continue to keep ‘eyes open’ and awareness out there. Details again are Brown/Bronze Rotrax frame made in 1949 with various upgraded touring parts.”