Classic 1949 Ariel Red Hunter Stolen for 30 Years Found at Last!
West Malling farmer Stephen Betts thought his cherished 1949 Ariel Red Hunter was gone for good after it was stolen in 1996. Despite a police probe back then, the bike vanished without a trace—until this year.
New Owner Buys Stolen Bike Off eBay
Mr Betts was stunned when the DVLA contacted him earlier this year, revealing someone had tried to register the iconic 500cc bike. The new owner had bought it off eBay, unaware it was stolen. During the Covid lockdown, he lovingly restored the classic machine, only to discover its true history when applying for registration.
“The new owner had bought the bike off eBay some time ago without realising it had been stolen and decided to do it up during the Covid lockdown. It was only when he tried to register the bike with the DVLA that they discovered it had actually belonged to me through the engine and chassis numbers, as the numberplate had been changed when it was stolen,” Mr Betts explained.
Despite the shock, the new owner showed grace, and the two struck a deal. Mr Betts compensated him for his restoration efforts, praising the “great job” he’d done.
Police and DVLA Team Up to Return Classic Bike
After the DVLA flagged the issue, kent.police.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener" title="Kent Police" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked">Kent Police launched further enquiries supported by the Metropolitan Police’s Organised Vehicle Crime Unit. An in-depth examination confirmed the bike’s identity before arrangements were made to reunite it with Mr Betts.
“Everyone worked very hard behind the scenes to trace the motorcycle back to me and I am very grateful. I am amazed that after nearly 30 years they were still able to do so,” said Mr Betts.
Officers Celebrate a Long-Awaited Victory
Detective Chief Inspector Neil Watford of Kent Police’s Investigation Management Unit praised the effort:
“When somebody’s vehicle is stolen from them, it is always our hope that we will be able to reunite them with their stolen property no matter how much time may pass. I am very pleased that with the support of our partners at the DVLA and Metropolitan Police we were able to return Mr Betts’ motorcycle to him, demonstrating that no criminal investigation is ever truly closed and we will always act on any new information received.”
PC Mike Pilbeam from the Met’s Organised Vehicle Crime Unit added:
“Reuniting Mr Betts with his missing bike after such a long time and hearing how much it means to him makes the work that we undertake all worthwhile. The bike had been restored to an exceptional standard and I’m pleased that both parties are happy with the outcome. As someone with a keen interest in classic motorcycles I could completely understand what a loss this would have been to Mr Betts, and does make this recovery even more special.”
