A man with high functioning autism has been left feeling 'distraught' after a bike he'd saved up to buy was stolen from the communal area of his flat in Falmouth.

Hayden Thompson, 23, who is also a member of Pendennis Brass Band, saved up £800 to buy the bike secondhand from his benefits but was devastated when it was stolen from outside his home in Dracaena Avenue.

It was stolen between 8.30am and 12.30 pm on Feb 27.

Hayden has high functioning autism but lives independently with the support of Falcare support workers. His mum Karen said he uses the bike regularly along with a small trailer, especially when not in lockdown, to carry his shopping and instruments when he is rehearsing with the band and it means the world to him.

"He had saved up and paid £800 for this bike secondhand from his benefits," she told the Packet. "He uses it regularly along with a small trailer that he connects to it to transport his food and musical instruments as when not in lockdown he is an active member of Pendennis Brass Band.

"This bike means the world to him and is his form of transport and freedom for when he gets overwhelmed, being able to go out and cycle calms him down."

The bike was taken from the communal area inside the flats, the outside door is usually locked and is key operated. The bike is quite distinctive as it is matte black with neon writing GT Avalanche bike with custom new seat and handle bar grips.

"Hayden is feeling distraught and vulnerable right now," said Karen.

Posting on Facebook Karen said: "My son's bike had been stolen from his flat at Dracaena Avenue, this is his only form of transport and he is absolutely devastated! It’s been reported to the police but if anyone sees it please let me know."

Devon and Cornwall Police have been contacted for more details. Any sightings report to Devon and Cornwall police on 101 quoting crime reference number CR/015662/21.

A spokesperson for Devon and Cornwall Police said: 

"Police are investigating reports of the theft of a bicycle in Falmouth.

2The theft is reported to have taken place between 10.30pm on Friday 26 and 12.30pm on Saturday 27 February from the locked communal area of a property on Draceana Avenue.

"The bike is described as a mountain bike and is black and yellow in colour.

"Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101 quoting CR/015662/21."

Karen can be contacted on Facebook through the Falmouth, Penryn and surrounding area community information Facebook page