"I never expected this kind of support"
An Indian content creator whose motorbike was stolen in Nottingham has been gifted a replacement, leaving him “speechless.”
Yogesh Alekari had been 15,000 miles into a round-the-world trip when his KTM 390 Adventure was stolen at Wollaton Park on August 28.
He had already travelled through 17 countries before arriving in the UK.
The story made international headlines and caught the attention of the Off Road Bike Centre in Mansfield Woodhouse. The business stepped in to ensure Mr Alekari could continue his journey.
On September 11, he collected the replacement motorbike, although his stolen passport and licence mean he will remain grounded for now.
He said: “After 10 days, I can smile. I never expected this kind of support – what can I say? I am speechless.
“The Off Road Centre did their job beyond imagination, I say thank you very much from the bottom of my heart.”
Mr Alekari explained he had spent four years planning the trip, finally purchasing the stolen bike in April.
His route had already taken him across Iran, Nepal, China, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan and much of Europe, including Germany, Belgium, the Netherlands and France.
Alongside the bike, luggage containing his documents and £15,000 worth of belongings was also taken.
With more than 180,000 Instagram and 16,000 Facebook followers, he had been documenting every stage of his adventure until his arrival in Nottingham.
Offers of support poured in after the theft, including replacement bikes, clothing, and even a message from the production company behind Long Way Home, the travel series fronted by Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman.
Mr Alekari said he is determined to continue, with plans to travel through another 30 countries. Africa is his next destination once he secures insurance for the new motorbike.
He said: “I need a lot of things to get on the road, I’ll pack my bike and as soon as possible, I will be on the road to somewhere in Africa.”
Benjamin Ledwidge, managing director of the Off Road Centre, said:
“With it being our home town, we thought ‘this bike’s here, let’s jump out and see if we can help him’.”
“I don’t think he believed it to begin with.
“We’re going to follow his journey now and see how he gets on.”
Meanwhile, Nottinghamshire Police confirmed an 18-year-old man had been arrested in Doncaster on suspicion of vehicle theft and other offences.
A firearm, an extendable baton and quantities of cannabis were seized during the operation. The man was further arrested on suspicion of possessing a firearm without a certificate, possession with intent to supply Class B drugs, and possession of an offensive weapon in a private place.
Police said they are still trying to trace the stolen motorbike.
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