Original URL: https://www.theregister.com/2008/07/24/david_cameron_bicycle_appears_ebay/

Tory leader's stolen bicycle surfaces on eBay

'It leans oddly to the right'

By Cade Metz

Posted in Bootnotes, 24th July 2008 21:49 GMT

Hours after Tory leader David Cameron told the world that someone had nicked his bicycle, the much-discussed two-wheeler has turned up on eBay. Or so it seems.

"This bike is not exactly new but it is nearly new because it has only been used for a couple of photo-opportunities," says the anonymous huckster offering Cameron's pride and joy to the highest bidder. "It is BIG and BLUE and despite looking quite well-balanced, it leans oddly to the right."

Mr. Cameron likes riding his bicycle to the House of Commons. In 2005, when he took over as Conservative Leader, the journey was broadcast live as TV news helicopters whirled above. He likes riding his bicycle so much, he's even been known to ride while a chauffeured car drives just behind him carrying his briefcase and papers.

A kind of reverie overtakes the Tory leader as he rides his "old friend." Not even red lights or street signs catch his eye.

So, when his bicycle was stolen from outside a Tesco grocery on Wednesday, he was "annoyed" and "pretty hacked off," according to his spokeswoman. "If anyone has seen this bicycle, I would like it back," he told The BBC. "I've reported it online...but I'm not holding my breath."

But perhaps there's hope. Over at eBay, bidding for Mr. Cameron's bicycle sits at 10.50 pounds - which we're guessing he's willing to spend. To him, his bike is "priceless." ®