A CARE home chef has appealed for the return of his electric bike after it was stolen from outside a pub in Wallingford.

Steve Foran, 55, said he left the Gtech eBike outside the Coach and Horses on Kinecroft on July 4 and it was gone when he returned 10 minutes later.

He is now using an ordinary bike to cycle from his home in Wigod Way, Wallingford, to the care home in Brightwell-cum-Sotwell where he works.

Mr Foran said: "I got the electric bike in August last year because I have got rheumatoid arthritis and have trouble with my knees.

"After the electric bike was stolen I borrowed a push bike from a friend to get to work but it takes a lot longer.

"I have a charging point at home for the electric bike and it goes about 20mph.

"I reported the theft to the police but as far as I am aware they haven't found it and have not made any arrests.

"I went to the pub about 10.30am to meet a friend and only left the bike for about 10 minutes.

"It cost me £1,800 and I really need it back - it would be great if someone put it back outside the Coach and Horses.

"The bike was locked with a combination lock and it was insured, but I think I will only get about £500 back from the insurers."

Bar worker at the Coach and Horses Gerry Gorringe said: "Mr Foran came into the pub when the bike was stolen and told us what had happened - he seemed very upset."

Thames Valley Police has not yet commented.