THREE bikes were stolen from a school for children with special needs in Welwyn Garden City.

Between 5.30pm on Friday, July 8 and 9am on Monday, July 11, thieves targeted Lakeside School in Lemsford Lane.

Police say one or more offenders have gained access to the school grounds, which are surrounded by a fence and locked gates. They have then taken two adult tricycles and one which was specially adapted for the disabled, which were in the school grounds.

One of the tricycles has since been recovered in Welwyn Garden City.

PCSO Kate Blenkin, from the Welwyn Garden City safer neighbourhood team, said: “This is a selfish and callous act by individuals who have only thought of their own personal gain, and not the hugely detrimental impact of the actions on the children at Lakeside.

“The loss of these bikes to their school will mean the children will miss out on a fun and valuable part of their learning.”

A pupil at the school called Matthew said: “The thieves stole our three bikes during the weekend when I was sleeping at home.

“I feel very upset and sad because I don't have a bike to ride on now. I hope my head teacher Judith can get some money to buy a new bike in September.”

Headteacher Judith Chamberlain added: “I feel disgusted that anyone would choose to steal from children with disabilities. The bikes were used particularly for our pupils with autism, and these pupils find it very hard to understand the change in their routines that this theft has caused.”

Anyone with information can call the police non-emergency number 101.