A MOTORBIKE that was its owner’s ‘pride and joy’ was stolen from a house in Darwen.

Police are appealing for information after the theft, believed to have taken place between 8.30pm and 10.45pm last Thursday.

Officers said someone broke into a house in Maria Street by forcing open the back window, searched the property and managed to locate the keys for a Yamaha R1 motorbike which was locked up in the kitchen.

They made their way out of the back door by unlocking it with a key which had been left in the lock.

They also stole a laptop and a remote-controlled monster truck.

PC Alan Malkin said: “The motorbike was this man’s pride and joy and we want to do all we can to try to return it to him.

“The motorbike is quite distinctive – it is black with a red trim on the wheels.

“If anybody has any information about this burglary, please come forward.”

Anyone with information should call 101.