Leeds cyclist, 82, left vulnerable after electric bike theft

Meryl Knapp took up cycling to keep fit and active

A pensioner has said she has been left feeling "vulnerable" after thieves stole her electric bike in Leeds.

Meryl Knapp, 82, said the bike gave her independence and believes it will cost £2,600 to replace.

She had locked it up outside the Aldi supermarket in Kirkstall on 25 January, but thieves used an angle grinder to cut through the locks.

The theft was captured on film by a motorist and has been reported to West Yorkshire Police.

Ms Knapp said she had joined a cycling group three years ago and had bought the electric bike to help her keep up with the group.

"It's a huge part of my life," she told BBC Radio Leeds.

"It's a huge part of me keeping fit and keeping myself mentally active.

"The two cycle rides a week are the highlight of my week, so I try not to miss them."

Meryl Knapp joined a cycling group three years ago

She said she had been shopping when she heard a member of staff mention a bike was being stolen outside.

Ms Knapp said she had gone out to find her bike locks had been broken.

"They sliced through the locks in a matter of seconds," she said.

"It seemed well-practiced. These guys were professionals, it was so slick."

A motorist captured the theft on film

Footage of someone riding away on her lime green bike was caught by a motorist.

She believes two men on a motorbike headed towards the bike rack, before one of them hopped off to steal it and ride away.

"I feel angry that there are people deliberately going around and doing that," Ms Knapp said.

"It makes me feel more vulnerable.

"I'm going to replace this bike because it's such an important part of my life. I can't imagine not continuing cycling for as long as I can."

After reporting the theft to the police, she also printed up some posters of her stolen bike.

West Yorkshire Police said it had recovered footage of the theft and was working to identify the suspects.