The Scottish Downhill Championships took place at Innerleithing. Photo: Barry Hall CC-BY-SA-2.0

Police are appealing for the public’s help after a competitor in a mountain bike race had his machine stolen.

Lothian and Borders Police said the £4,500 bike was taken from a campsite in Innerleithen early on Saturday.

The ROSE bike belonged to a 15-year-old racer in the Scottish Downhill Championships who had secured it to the outside of a caravan with a steel lock. The bike has a purple and white frame, white Fox downhill front forks, and Fox rear suspension.

Officers are now appealing for anyone with information that can assist with their enquiries to come forward.

A police spokesman said: “The young man had come to Innerleithen to participate in the Scottish Downhill Championships and is deeply upset that his bike has been stolen.

“Anyone who remembers seeing anything suspicious within the downhill track car park is asked to contact police immediately.

“Similarly, we would urge bicycle store staff to be on the look out in case someone tries to sell the bike on.”

The theft took place some time between 1am and 8am on Saturday 17 September at the downhill track campsite on Traquair Road, Innerleithen.

Anyone with any information can contact Lothian and Borders Police on 0131 311 3131, or the charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.