AJ ‘heartbroken’ after ‘pride and joy’ stolen

A DUNDEE schoolboy has been left “devastated” after his “pride and joy” bike was stolen.

A thief struck after the bicycle — which is designed to look like a motocross bike — was left outside six-year-old AJ Finlay’s home.

The 14-inch yellow Avigo cycle was taken from Lister Court, near Ninewells Hospital.

It had been left alongside a number of other children’s toys — which were untouched — and a more expensive BMX.

AJ’s dad Andy, 42, who works as a store controller at Ancrum Outdoor Centre, has appealed for anyone with information on the theft to come forward.

Andy, who has lived in the area for the last five years, said his son cried when told the news after getting home from Ancrum Road Primary.

“When I told AJ what had happened, he was absolutely devastated,” said Andy.

“His wee heart was beating so fast and he couldn’t get to sleep at all that night.”

Andy said the bike had been left outside their house, as it normally is at night.

“It’s a wee quiet, dead-end road where no one really ever bothers you. I never expected the bike to be stolen,” he added.

“I am heartbroken for AJ — I cried when he cried.

“I just want to put a smile back on his face.”

Andy said that even though the bike was not expensive, it was AJ’s favourite thing and to get it back would “mean everything” to his son.

After it was stolen, Andy posted an appeal online in a bid to get the bike back, which has been shared hundreds of times.

“The support received for my wee boy’s bike has been amazing,” said Andy.

“Thank you to each and every person who has shared or commented on my post. I just hope that if the person who stole it has a heart, they will return it to us and then I can make my wee boy smile again.”

A police spokeswoman said: “Police Scotland is appealing for information after the theft of a bike from Lister Court between 10.30pm on Sunday and 7am on Monday. Anyone with any information that may be useful should call 101 quoting CR/23199/17, or speak to any police officer. Alternatively, information can be passed anonymously via the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.”

Andy with his son, AJ. Inset: The Avigo bike that was stolen from outside their home in Lister Court.