A CLASSIC car enthusiast has spoken of how "gutted" he was after his prized Triumph Stag was stolen.

Ken Burrows, of Alexandra Close, Clayton-le-Moors, bought the vintage soft-top 10 months ago and was devastated to return from a day out to find thieves had stolen it.

The 58-year-old has been a classic car fan for years, and has previously owned Jaguars and an Alfa Romeo, none of which were targeted.

He said the £7,500 collector's car, in British racing green, was in excellent condition and was used for only short trips, completing a maximum of 2,000 miles a year in accordance with classic car insurance.

"I have had classic cars for years, and just like everyone else I fancied a Stag," he said.

The 32-year-old H-registered car was taken from outside his house on Saturday between 8.30am to 4pm.

"It's parked there all the time. I was gutted when I came home," said Mr Burrows. "I rang the police straight away.

"They have asked people round here and nobody saw anything."

He said he didn't know whether he would have another classic car because it had put him off a bit.

"I'm hoping I get it back, as long as it's not too badly damaged," he said.

Mr Burrows changed his other car, a Ford Sierra, after it was broken into twice in two weeks.

A police spokesman said today the Stag still had not been found.

Anyone with any information should call 01254 353334.