Ipswich family sickened by theft of motorbike which had been in family for 40 years

Mr King on his beloved motorbike Picture: PAUL KING (Image: Archant)

The motorbike, a red and white Honda C50 Classic 1979, was taken from Louis King’s home in Hutland Road betweehn 6pm and 10.25pm on Sunday.

Mr King said that he had been watching television and eating dinner during the time the theft happened.

He was completely unaware the bike had been stolen until he went out to check on his other vehicles, and he was left shocked to find the bike, a steering lock and his helmet had been taken.

“I felt sick,” said Mr King.

“I could not believe it. I had just bought a new lock that morning. “I was absolutely devastated.”

Despite being a classic, Mr King said he still rode the bike, clocking up a number of miles each year, particularly in the summer months.

His most recent trip on the motorbike had been to Felixstowe in the past few weeks.

The bike had great sentimental value for Mr King’s family as it had originally belonged to his father-in-law who had looked after it for 10 years before selling it to Mr King.

In the 30 years since, the motorbike had become Mr King’s pride and joy.

“There’s not a mark on it,” said Mr King.

Mr King believes that whoever took the bike from his property would have had to use a vehicle to remove it because of its weight and the steering lock which was still in place at the time.

He hopes that the bike will be returned soon.

The distinctive bike has the registration number KGV 934V.

A spokesman for Suffolk police said; “Anyone who has information regarding the incident or knowledge of the current whereabouts of the bike should contact Suffolk Constabulary on 101, quoting crime reference 37/11009/19.”

You can also contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via their anonymous online form.