A YOUNG biker’s spirits have been lifted after his pride and joy has been returned.

Rhys Crawford-Sheldon, 14, of Millom, was left ‘gutted’ after his expensive mountain bike was stolen from Katherine Street on Tuesday night.

The bike, worth over £1200, was found by fellow Millom homeowner, Richard Holmes, 30, near the RSPC Hodbarrow Nature Reserve, yesterday afternoon.

Mr Holmes said: “I spotted the bike near Hodbarrow and remembered seeing it on social media.

“I contacted his mum (Andrea Crawford, 36) straight away and her son was over the moon to be given the bike back.

“I imagine he was devastated to have lost the bike.

“So it was great to put a smile on a young lad’s face.

“It just shows the positive side of social media and it’s always nice to see the community come together.

“I noticed the stem had been taken from the frame, but other than that it was in one piece.

“It was odd someone stole the bike and then ditched it.”

Ms Crawford said: “Richard is a top fella.

“At the time, I was devastated for my son, who had saved his Christmas and birthday money to pay for the bike.

“It made me sick to the stomach to think someone had stole it because it is not something that can easily be replaced.

“Rich got the biggest hug from me and a thank you and handshake from Rhys.

“He also declined the reward.

“This just shows the power of social media.

"Rhys never thought he'd never see it again - he's in shock."

Rhys Sheldon said: “I was angry and gutted because I thought it was taken from someone I know.”

Police confirmed they investigated the incident.