A RARE miniature Japanese motorbike has been stolen from a shop just three days after it opened for business.

Shop owner Peter Bleackley is now offering a reward for the return of the unusual bike - one of only three in the country.

The Kawasaki KS11 was among three bikes stolen in a raid at Valley Motorcycles, Acre Garage, Blackburn Road, Haslingden.

A furious Peter said: "I imported the bike from Japan and have had it for about a year. It was novelty bike really and had been put in the shop front as a bit of a talking point.

"There are probably around 200 to 300 bikes in the world. They were made as a fun bike for displays at race meeting.

"Despite their size, they can be ridden by a fully grown man and the 80cc engines means they can reach up to 60mph. The bike was registered and could be driven on public roads."

"It would be pretty difficult to miss it as it only reaches knee level. The bike is worth £1,400, but it is so unusual and this is why I am offering a cash reward for its return."

The bike is green with a blue seat and registration number is E257WWW.

Since the burglary Peter has had to spend £4,000 on steel security shutters and a burglar alarm.

Peter, who also owns car garages in the Blackpool area, said: "It really is a kick in the teeth. The shop had only just opened."

Also taken were two motocross bikes, a Kawasaki KX100 with a green tank, white frame and blue and white seat, and a red Honda CR250.

Anyone with information should contact Valley Motorcycles on 01706 230320 or Rawtenstall police on 01706 215242.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.