A YOUNGSTER whose bicycle was stolen less than a week after his mother died has had it returned following a plea through The Northern Echo.

Steven Hobson had been to visit his mother, Susan, at the Chapel of Rest, in Barnard Castle, County Durham, when thieves made off with his silver BMX Ennelle bike.

It was the final blow for the ten-year-old, from Baff Street, Spennymoor, County Durham, who is still coming to terms with the loss of his 46-year-old mother, who died of a heart attack on September 17.

His godmother, Christine Woodward, who is now his legal guardian, contacted The Northern Echo last week in the hope that his story would shame the thieves into returning it.

Thanks to the appeal, the thieves did exactly that.

Ms Woodward said: "He sav-ed up for it with his pocket money. I was the one who left it outside and I was in tears when I had to tell him it had been stolen.

"I did not think he would ever get it back, but it was worth a try.

"When the police came to the door to tell us it had been handed in, we couldn't believe it."

The return of the bike, which is fitted with stunt pegs, means the Rosa Street Primary School pupil can go out to play again with his friends on their bikes.

Steven said that he was thrilled to get it back and that he could not thank the police enough for their help, especially PC Stephen Callaghan.

Ms Woodward said: "PC Callaghan was the one who came to the house the night Susan died and he has been lovely with Steven. He has even offered him a look around the police station.

"I would like to thank the people who handed it in because Steven was so excited. Friends and neighbours have been really good as well. They have shown Steven so much support."