IT’S A Toy Story with a difference.

When cowboy Woody disappeared from his usual position at the helm of Pete Jowett’s van, it was presumed he had simply fallen off and was lying by the roadside somewhere.

But then came the ransom note, complete with a photo of a bound and gagged Woody, and the demand for £5 to ensure his safe return.

The hostage-taker had gone to great lengths to protect his identity, even cutting out words from newspapers to create the note, which was left inside a plastic folder under the van’s windscreen wiper.

Pete, who owns Bournespeed Motorcycles in Palmerston Road, Boscombe, said he had no idea whatsoever who was behind the practical joke.

“I’ve had Woody for around four years and he’s become a bit of an institution,” he said.

“He’s been all round the world with me and I’ve got used to kids pointing at him as I drive by.

“When he went missing, I presumed he had fallen off and didn’t think anything of it. Then I found this note underneath my windscreen wiper and it had me in absolute hysterics.

“It’s all done properly and must have taken a bit of time and planning. It’s absolutely hilarious. I’ve no idea who’s behind it but it’s worth a fiver for their cheek.”

Pete has upped the stakes by leaving his own note to the kidnapper, pointing out that at this time of year, he just didn’t have that kind of money.

“In the week leading up to Christmas, Woody needs to be at home with his family. He hasn’t even taken his hat with him,” he said.