A SOCIAL media appeal has been launched after a bicycle worth £500 was stolen from Andover High Street.

The brightly-coloured push bike was chained up outside Topshop yesterday afternoon (Sunday) when it was taken.

It belonged to a young Andover teenager who saved up to buy it. 

His girlfriend's mother Simone Barnikel yesterday posted to Facebook: "Please can anyone helps us. The bike below was locked up outside Topshop in Andover High Street today from 2.15pm to 3pm."

"The lock has been cut and bike stolen. Police have been advised any help would be much appreciated."

The 16-year-old, who is starting college in September, saved up for the bike himself and now cannot afford to replace it. 

HE and his family are desperate for it to be returned. 

Anyone with information is asked to contact police using the 101 non-emergencey number.