Police have been slammed by victims of crime after ''leaping'' to help recover a stolen bicycle - belonging to entertainer Timmy Mallett.

The TV personality took to Twitter to share a photo of the E-bike, which was stolen in Cookham and is nicknamed after his late brother, writing that he is "heartbroken" over the theft.

Eccentric Mallett, 62, famed for hosting children's TV shows such as Wacaday, recently cycled "halfway across Europe" on the sentimental bike.

Thames Valley Police immediately responded to his Tweet assuring Mallett they were "on the case".

But they were hit with criticism from the public for favouring celebrities.

Specialist insolvency firm Valentine & Co. wrote: "A pity you guys didn't take quite the same level of interest when one of my staff reported being threatened and followed at 11pm in a quiet road by a stranger in a car and had to hide behind a bush.

"She even had the address the man came from. Still, good luck finding Timmy's bike!"

And kitchen and bathroom fitter Alcet UK added: "A pity the police did nothing to apprehend the person who keyed my van and the cost will be £1700 to have repaired.

"Police do nothing for ordinary people."

Phil Jackson commented: "My bike was stolen from Maidenhead train station - you guys were most definitely not 'on the case' then."

And Twitter account Kazza wrote: "No offence to Timmy Mallett but this is what annoys people with the police.

"Unless you are a celebrity you feel like the bottom of the pile when you need them. Good luck Timmy."

Timmy wrote on Twitter wrote: "I've cycled half way across Europe on my Giant E bike carrying dear brother Martin's memory.

"Securely locked in my local pub car park [Kings Arms in Cookham] last night it was taken. CCTV shows them. Heartbroken."

Thames Valley Police replied to Mallett on Monday morning, writing: "Hi Timmy. We are on the case. If any members of the public have any information, please contact us."

However, several commenters did rally in support of Mallett, with several e-bike companies offering to lend bikes until his is found.

And Oxford's New Theatre Tweeted on Wednesday: "People of Oxford: Can we help Timmy be reunited with his bike?

"Today would have been his brother Martin's birthday, so it would be lovely if the public could help get a positive outcome on this."