AN 85-year-old disabled York man was left heartbroken after youths stole his electric bicycle and smashed it up.

Harry Walker, who suffers from chronic lung disease and heart problems, had locked the cycle outside the Kwik Save supermarket, in Hull Road, when the thieves struck.

The pensioner, who lives with his housebound wife Audrey in Burlington Avenue, uses the specially-adapted two-wheeler to get around because of his condition.

It was later seen by a woman being kicked and stamped on by teenagers in Etty Avenue.

She was believed to be too frightened to give a statement to police.

Mr Walker's daughter, Jackie Ellerton, of Pottery Lane, said: "I'm disgusted - as if he hasn't got enough health problems.

"The bike enables him to get out of the house but now that has gone to pot.

"My dad is trying to get some insurance money to pay for the damage but we're not sure yet whether he is covered.

"He is devastated."

Mrs Ellerton said her father, who was a blacksmith before his retirement, served in the Second World War.

"He has been an independent man all of his life," she said.

"That has now been cruelly taken away.

"I appeal to anyone who saw something not to be frightened and come forward.

"These swine need to be brought to justice."

Audrey Walker, 73, who is confined to her bed, said: "It has been very upsetting.

"My husband is in very poor health and this has done him no good."

A spokeswoman for York police said: "Supermarkets are usually busy places so someone must have seen something.

"We appeal to them to come forward."

Anyone with information should contact York police on 01904 631321.

Updated: 08:49 Friday, February 15, 2002