The theft of 30 bikes from a charity in Athlone is deeply disappointing according to Westmeath County Council.
The Athlone Civic Amenity Centre was broken into over the weekend and the bikes which were stored on-site, were removed from a locked container.
The bicycles were part of the School Bikes for Africa scheme, a programme that sends bicycles to African schools to allow students to travel long distances to access education.
Westmeath County Council is currently working with the Gardaí to identify those behind the robbery.
In a statement to Shannonside Northern Sound, Environmental Awareness Officer with the local authority, John Jackson, says the targeting of a charity scheme that benefits those most in need is very disappointing.
Local Gardaí are urging anyone who noticed anything suspicious in the area of the Civic Amenity Centre site to contact them at 0906 492609.
