A BOY was threatened with violence by an older man before the thief made off with his bike.

The 13-year-old boy had his bike stolen at about 6.30pm on Sundasy as he played with friends by the water's edge at the Tees Barrage near Stockton.

He was with a group of 13 and 14 year-old boys when they were approached by an older male who threatened the youngster with violence if he did not hand over his bike.

The suspect, who was not known to the boys, then rode the bike away, heading towards Stockton.

The bike is a distinctive fluorescent green and orange Calibra Line 10 mountain bike.

Anyone who was in the Tees Barrage area at the time and who may have seen the incident or the suspect riding the bike shortly afterwards is asked to contact police.

If you have seen or been offered the bike for sale contact DC Lindsay Davidson of the Stockton Operational Crime Team via the 101 number.

Information can also be passed anonymously to Crimestoppers via its website at www.crimestoppers-uk.org or by phoning them on 0800-555-111. Quote event number 104094.