Triathlete Claudio Picco is struggling to compete, say police, after his bicycle was stolen in Uxbridge .

No ordinary push bike, the high-tech Corratec Pro – German made and worth £4,000 – was stolen from Hillingdon Sports and Leisure Centre in Gatting Way, and police say he cannot afford to replace it at the moment.

Officers from the joint Transport for London and Metropolitan Police Roads and Transport Policing Command are leading the appeal for the public’s help to get Claudio, 33, and originally from Italy, back on the road.

Claudio, a veteran who represents Hillingdon Triathletes and finished sixth in a 600m/6km/25km swim/run/bike event in June, parked and locked his bicycle outside the club at about 6.30pm on Saturday, October 4. When he returned at about 9pm, his bicycle was gone.

Police have a partial description of a man seen in the area who they say could be the thief, but it only extends to him having dark hair and wearing black clothing.

If you see the bicycle or can help in any way, call PC Lisa Khelifi on 07825 386 494 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.