AN out-of-work farmhand from Malvern has been grounded after a thief sped off on his beloved £1,800 mountain bike.

Now Tom Morris fears his job prospects have been dealt a blow for the time being because he is struggling to find transport for interviews.

The 20-year-old left the top-of-the-range model outside Lloyds Chemist in Barnards Green on Saturday while he nipped inside to fetch his girlfriend for lunch.

When he emerged the unlocked bike was gone.

"I just left it there for two minutes and I hadn't locked it up because there was no real need," said Tom, of Coniston Close, Poolbrook.

With some financial help from his dad, Tom had saved hard for the bike, which he bought three years ago.

He does not drive and is now relying on friends to help him with lifts to job interviews, which he would normally cycle to.

"I was pretty upset and angry. I love boxing, as well, so I can't get to training as easily as I did."

The GT Zaskar LE bike has an aluminium-coloured frame, 21 Shimano XTR gears and a quick-release saddle and wheels.

The saddle is black with a slight rip on its cover and "turbo" written on the back.

It also has a blue bottle rack while the front mudguard is purple and green with "Bullseye" printed on it.

"The bike is very distinctive and would be easily recognised if seen," said Malvern beat manager PC Ian Thompson.

"I would ask anyone who thinks they might know the whereabouts of the bike to contact police on 01905 723888 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 should they wish to remain anonymous."