EXPENSIVE bikes were stolen from a shed in Poole earlier this month.

Thieves tipped the outbuilding onto its side and tore off the roof to gain access to the bikes - a medium-sized black Cannondale Bad Boy hybrid bike with red handle bar grips and clip-in pedals and a custom-built white Commencal Meta 55 full suspension bike with green graphics, bright yellow handlebars and very large gold disk brakes - which were locked to a work bench.

The raid took place at a property in Winston Avenue at some point between 11.30pm on Thursday, January 14, and 9.30am the following day. The burglars also took a third bike which has since been recovered.

Police Sergeant Adrian Thompson, of Poole police, said: "I am appealing to anyone who saw anything suspicious in the Winston Avenue area between the relevant times to please call me on 101.

"I am particularly keen to hear from anyone who has bought second-hand bikes similar to those stolen recently or has seen them offered for sale."

Witnesses and anyone with information can call Dorset Police in confidence on 101 quoting reference 55160008204, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 where mobile phone tariffs may apply.