A DISABLED Clitheroe man has been left high and dry by heartless thieves who stole his moped then wrote it off.

Alan Cowburn, of Woone Lane, has suffered rheumatoid arthritis since he was 21.

He depends on the moped for visiting his girlfriend in Mill Hill, Blackburn, and for shopping.

Despite the fact that it was locked and secured, the vehicle was taken from the back of his girlfriend's house in Brothers Street on Saturday night.

Crestfallen Mr Cowburn later discovered it "smashed to pieces" and completely unusable.

He said: "It is in a real state. Until the insurance is sorted out, I am without transport. It will cost up to £400 to repair the damage. I just can't afford that kind of money."

Mr Cowburn, who has had both hips replaced, is unable to walk for long distances.

He has had the moped for nine years and described it as his "lifeline".

He added: "Now I can't even do my shopping. The moped meant everything to me. It was my only means of getting around. I am absolutely disgusted with whoever left it in this state."

Blackburn CID are aware of the theft and would like to hear from anyone with information (01254 51212).

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