Peterborough’s Free Kicks Foundation helps youngster after devastating bike theft

Steve Thorpe from the Free Kicks Foundation spotted a post on Facebook revealing 12-year-old Harley Boyce had had his bicycle stolen.

Steve wanted to help Harley after the bike was taken from outside Sainsbury’s, Oxney Road.

He said: “We thought as we can’t currently do our usual work, due to there being no football without fans it would be a nice gesture to buy him a new one. We decided to help because Harley, being autistic, would be hugely upset about losing his bike.”

Free Kicks Foundation is a charity formed in Peterborough in 2007 which is dedicated providing football-themed experiences to disadvantaged children and young adults at clubs all around the country.

Harley’s mum Catherine, who is a nurse, was ‘really upset’ after the theft. She said: “Harley was devastated when his bike was stolen.

When Steve said they would like to buy him a bike it made his day and restored his faith in humanity.

“The bike is lovely and Harley is out and about on it everyday! We have received so much support from the community which we are really appreciative of.”

Due to the surge in people purchasing bikes, Free Jicks had a really hard time buying one locally.

Not wanting to let a lack of stock get in the way, they ended up importing one from Germany through Amazon so Harley could carry on cycling.

Steve said: “We couldn’t get a bike which was the correct size anywhere in Peterborough or the surrounding areas.

“We went on Amazon and saw one that was perfect though it had to be shipped from Germany!”

Hearing of Harley’s stolen bike the staff at Sainsbury’s, Oxney Road got together and raised money so accessories such as a bell, pump, lights and reflectors could be bought!

‘Delighted’ with his new bike, Harley was incredibly happy to begin cycling again and has continued to clock up more miles!