Appeal to find man who assaulted a boy when stealing bike

The family of a 12-year-old boy who was thrown about and punched before having his bike stolen are appealing for people to help find the culprit.

The incident happened between 1pm and 1.35pm on Saturday 18 January 2014 at Mandale Park BMX track where the boy and his friend were riding their bikes.

In a break from riding, the pair were approached by an older man who attacked the boy and stole his bike.

Bridget Croney, the auntie of the boy involved, said: “It appeared to be a grown man that did this and for a grown man to do this to a young boy is horrible.”

The man is described as a white man of chubby build with a goatee. He had a crew cut hair cut and blue eyes and is believed to be around 17 years old. He was wearing a grey tracksuit top, grey tracksuit bottoms and black Addidas trainers.

The man is then thought to have driven off down Manchester Road.

Bridget added: “It is not necessarily about getting the bike back, it is more about finding the man who did this.”

The attack has now left Bridget’s nephew frightened and scared. She said: “He is a timid boy anyway but this has left him very shaken up and frightened. He is playing sick and not going into school because he thinks he might see this person again.”

The bike, which was a Christmas present, is described as a red and black X Rated Qatar BMX bike with a value of approximately £100.

“If we can find the bike, or if we know where the bike is, then it might lead us to find the man who did this and that is what we want to do. If anyone sees the bike then hopefully they will find it in their conscience to let someone know,” said Bridget.

Greater Manchester Police confirmed the report and said: “The incident is still being investigated.”

Anyone who believes they know about the bike can contact Bridget at: bridgetcroney@live.com