SHE took part in a school challenge to encourage people to ditch their cars for cycles – and won a new shiny bike.

But after thieves struck, 14-year-old Rebecca Brayshaw, of Acomb, York, has been left devastated following the theft of her £200 prized possession.

Her mum, Louise, has now pleaded for anyone who might have witnessed the theft, which happened between 11.30am and 11.50am on Monday to come forward with information.

Rebecca had let her mum use her bike and Louise explained she had left it chained up near to Boots in Acomb Road.

“The bike had two lots of chains wrapped around it, but whoever stole it just cut them clean off,” said Louise.

“I had literally left it for ten minutes and when I came back it had just gone.”

Teenager Rebecca, a pupil at All Saints’ RC School, was one of four children across York to win a bike in 2005 after they took part in a challenge to encourage people out of cars and cycle to school.

Louise said the bike was one of Rebecca’s prized possessions. It is silver, and has “Giant” written on its side in bold red lettering. It has a bell and a black basket on the front attached by a grey padlock.

“It meant so much to her so please, if anyone who may have seen anything, witnessed the theft, recognises the bike, please let us or the police know; it would be so much appreciated,” said Louise.

Not only did Rebecca use the bike to travel to and from school, but the conscientious pupil used to cycle to Acomb library every Saturday morning to do her homework.

“It has put us in a right spot,” said Louise. “Not only that, it had sentimental value. She was so made up when she won it, now she is gutted it has gone.”

Anybody who witnessed the theft or who can help recover the cycle is asked to phone York Police on 0845 6060247, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111. Alternatively, phone Louise on 01904 337032.