A GROUP of young disabled people is celebrating after a bike which was stolen was returned.

The specialist bike had been taken from Eco Wings, in Fairfax Drive, Westcliff, which caters for people with mental and physical disabilities.

They were left devastated by the theft, as they had been using the bike to help improve their mobility.

But, following an appeal in the Echo, the bike was found dumped outside a nearby retirement home on Thursday night.

The people living at Savannah rest home, in Old Leigh Road, called the police and it is now back with its rightful owners.

Victor Wyatt, 63, of Balmoral Road, Westcliff, was delighted because he had initially bought the bike for his son Robin, 22, who has Down’s syndrome. But as his son got older, he decided to donate it to the centre he attends with his friends.

He said: “Robin’s face lit up when the policeman told us it had been found. It’s gone back to Eco Wings now and hopefully they will be able to get it outside and start using it again.

“They really enjoyed getting out on it because it helps with their co-ordination. Some have trouble with their limbs and it helps almost as a physiotherapy tool. It also helps to get them out and about.”

The distinctive mountain bike has three wheels at the back to make it easier for people with disabilities to use.

Mr Wyatt said: “I think somebody’s seen the piece in the Echo and decided they didn’t want to be caught with it.”

Vicki Holder, 28, who owns the centre, said: “I reckon someone was drunk, stole it and went on a joyride before dumping it.

“Luckily there’s nothing wrong with it, I picked it up on Friday morning and now it’s back where it should be.”

Eco Wings is a centre regularly used by people aged 19 to 30 with a variety of different disabilities.

It was opened a year ago to give them a place to meet with their peers.

They also learn crucial life skills, such as how to cook for themselves.