Kind-hearted Coast & Country staff rallied round after tenant Francis Winspear had his bike stolen.

Mr Winspear, 66, who is a familiar sight riding his bike in Loftus, was upset when his bike disappeared from outside a shop in the town. It was later found dumped and broken.

Cycling had been beneficial to Mr Winspear’s health – his diabetes medication had been reduced and his circulation had improved.

Coast & Country’s Community Investment Team put out an appeal for help to staff and the response was overwhelming with offers to organise collections, raffles and promises to ask relatives and friends if a replacement bike could be found.

James Hardy, whose mum Sam Hardy works in Coast & Country’s HR department, generously offered to donate his mountain bike.

Barry McBride, of Coast & Country’s Corporate Support Services, provided lights and a security lock and the company has bought Mr Winspear a new bell.

Mr Winspear said: “I would like to thank Coast & Country staff for organising this fantastic surprise. James has been really generous donating his own bike.

“I love cycling. It is great way of getting round the town and has also helped improve my health. So I was really upset when my bike was stolen. But due to this kindness, I can now get out and about again.”

Lesley Conroy lead officer for Customer service at Coast & Country said: “Coast & Country staff have a reputation for providing exceptional customer service and support, but they have gone the extra mile to help Mr Winspear.

“Making a real difference to the quality of life for one of our tenant’s is what staff at Coast & Country truly believe in. In particular Sam Hardy’s son James is to be commended for his kind-heartedness in donating his own bike.”