The parents of two teenagers who were attacked by three men who stole their bicycle have warned the public to be on the look-out for the thieves.

The boys, Kevin van Buskirk and Stephen Glass, both 16, were sharing a bicycle ride at about 1.30pm on Sunday near the Tatham Street Bridge when they were accosted.

Shirley van Buskirk, Kevin’s gran, said the three young men – who of whom sported a silver slit in his gums – surrounded the boys and chased them.

In doing so, Kevin fell off the bicycle  and their attackers made off with it. They ran towards the railway line with the bicycle.

Kevin and Steven later told a passing police patrol van.  Kevin’s dad also brought in his dogs to help to look for the thieves and bicycle but to no avail.

“The bicycle was a blue and white mountain bike.  His grandfather bought it for him so it was special.  Parents, please be careful when allowing your children to go out alone,” said Shirley.