LOCK it or lose it! New cycle-owner Craig Almond learned that lesson the hard way.
He was thrilled to get a trials bike as his combined 13th birthday and Christmas present. But he only had his treasured bicycle for two days before a thief took it.
Craig, from Player's Close, Rushington, had ridden into Totton to choose a video. He took his eyes off his bike to check his change - and in that instant it was gone.
But the sad saga has a happy ending. A new bike has been given to Craig by a Rushington-based firm - The Electric Motor Company.
Several members of Craig's family have worked for the firm, and managing director Jerry Russell is proud of the community spirit among his workforce.
He was determined local boy Craig should have a happy new year.
When Craig received his new bike from Electric Motor Company group services director Gordon Allen, he got another surprise - from local bobby Dave Warwick.
Pc Warwick gave Craig a bike lock and a reminder to keep his bicycle secured.
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