A former soldier who suffers from severe back pain has hit out at thieves who stole his mobility buggy from his garden.

Former Gordon Highlander John Clarke, 53, said the distinctive yellow and purple SECMA Funtech powered tricycle was his "lifeline".

The £2000 vehicle, believed to be one of only two in use in Scotland, was taken from behind Mr Clarke's house in Methilahaven Road, Methil, Fife, some time between Wednesday and Sunday.

Mr Clarke had been hoping to do up the buggy, which is missing a mirror and has a flat battery, so he could use it to get about.

He has been registered disabled since he was crushed in a work accident 25 years ago which seriously damaged his lower back.

He said: "This vehicle was my lifeline. It's handy, easy to manoeuvre and cheap to run, but it was off the road and chained to a tree in my garden.

"I was getting a mechanic to come and look at it, and it was due to be repaired for me.

"Now it's been stolen -- they cut the chain and took it too. I think it's terrible.

"I need it to get around and my sister-in-law, who has polio, also uses it sometimes. So I can't believe someone would steal it from me. They should be ashamed of themselves."

Fife Constabulary are hoping people will recognise the buggy, which has the registration plate GX04 BGY, if it is put up for saiel.

Sergeant Steven Stewart said: "This is a very unusual and distinctive vehicle, and we hope that any member of the public who sees it, or is offered it for sale, will recognise that it is stolen and contact us directly."

Anyone with information is asked to contact Fife Constabulary on 0845 600 5702 or through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.