BIKE fanatics have been left "devastated" after their eight racing bikes were stolen in Benfleet.

The distinctive bikes were stolen from an outbuilding at an address off Common Approach.

It is thought they were taken at about 3.10am on Tuesday, December 1.

The victim said: “Me and my husband are devastated.

“Cycling is our passion and our hobby, and the criminals have taken that away from us.

“They have just caused us absolute devastation.

"We spent years working hard to buy the bikes when we could afford them.

“We both race competitively and they’ve stolen the bike I was going to use for the first races starting in March.”

A spokesman for Essex Police urged anyone who is offered the bikes for sale to come forward.

He added: "We have been progressing our enquiries and believe the bikes could be offered for sale online or to dealers and pawnbrokers.

"If you have been offered these bikes for sale or have any information about the burglary, contact Basildon CID."

Witnesses should call 101 quoting reference 42/196682/20 or submit a report online at essex.police.uk.

Information can also be given to independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.