A young boy has been left devastated after cruel thieves stole his dream quadbike.

Five-year-old Connor Martyn was bought the four-wheel-drive off road machine for Christmas after he set his heart on having one.

His dad Dominic Martyn, 29, worked overtime for months to afford the £1,600 quadbike.

But on Saturday night, burglars broke into the shed of the family's home in Foresight Road, Old Heath, Colchester, and made off with Connor's pride and joy.

Mr Martyn said: "Connor is really upset. He did nothing but cry and did not want to go to school yesterday (Monday).

"It's disgusting that someone could steal from a five-year-old."

Mr Martyn is putting up a "substantial reward" for information leading to the return of the bike and conviction of the burglars. It is not covered by the insurance and I can't afford to buy another one," he said.

The burglars broke down the gate and cut through three padlocks to take the bike then manhandled it out of the garden.

"It looks like it was stolen to order and must have taken at least two men," Mr Martyn said.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact police on 01206 762212 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111

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