The father of a teenager with autism who had his bike stolen by thugs in Ipswich says he is “overwhelmed” by the support of the public after a crowdfunding page was launched to buy his son a new bike.

Jordan Rednall, 16, was set upon by a group of teenagers in Landseer Park at around 5.30pm on Sunday, July 30, who pushed him over and rode off with his bike.

His father, John, said Jordan, who has learning difficulties, ADHD and anxiety issues, was “distraught” after the theft.

A week later Jordan travelled up to Sheffield for the Special Olympics, winning gold in the softball throw competition, which took his mind off his missing bicycle.

But since returning home Mr Rednall said Jordan cannot stop thinking of his beloved bike and is unable to comprehend why someone would take it.

Messages of support have flooded social media since news of the theft emerged.

A crowdfunding page was set up to buy Jordan a new Mongoose Thunderball bike, described by John as his son’s “pride and joy”.

The fundraising campaign has already raised more than £400 of its £500 target.

John said he was grateful to everyone for their kind-hearted support.

He said: “It’s overwhelming really. That people would care so much about my son is lovely.

“It’s amazing the generosity of some people, it is not easy in this current economic climate.

“I just wanted to get the story out there and try and pull on the heart strings on the people who did it so they would feel some remorse.

“For people to think of Jordan and donate some of their hard earned money is just wonderful.

“He doesn’t want a laptop, an iPhone, a computer - a simple thing like a piece of metal with two wheels brings a huge amount of joy to him. I can’t explain how much it means to him.”

As well as the crowdfunding page, John has received messages from people with spare mountain bikes eager to give them a worthwhile new home.

A Suffolk Police spokeswoman said an investigation into the theft is ongoing.

To make a donation, visit the crowdfunding page.

Call 101 quoting reference 37/52114/17 with information.