Sussex thief poses as buyer

If you’re selling a superbike, take extreme care if a Grant Mitchell lookalike comes to view it.

A Sussex-based thief has been leaving stolen bikes as security while taking sellers’ machines for a test ride and then doing a runner with their bike.

Sussex Police say he is aged between 30 and 35, 5ft 11ins tall and of stocky build with cropped blond hair. One witness came up with the likeness to Mitchell, although he looks a little softer than the former EastEnders character.

He has struck so far in Polegate, Bexhill, Worthing, Peacehaven, Burgess Hill and the Storrington area.

He wore dark blue and black leathers at the Burgess Hill theft and a blue and black Arai lid.

A Sussex police spokesman said: " This man clearly comes across as a very genuine plausible purchaser. He seems to be interested in high quality machines and obviously knows his subject. "

Police are keen to hear from people who may know his identity and can be contacted either on 0845-60-70-999 or through Crimestoppers on 0800-555-111.

Have you had a similar experience? Post a message on the News board to warn others, or pass on tips to avoid more bikes being stolen.