AN antique shop owner was left in a state of disbelief after an opportunist thief walked out with a vintage piano-accordion.

Dave Roberts, of Carlton Antiques in Worcester Road, Malvern, said the instrument was a popular item and had been on display near the front of the shop. "I just cannot believe it - I'm a trusting person and had the item there because people like to come in and give it a go," he said. "Perhaps the person who stole it would like to return and collect the instruction manual they left behind. Perhaps they would also like some help removing the piano I have here, or if their ambition is to become a musician I could easily arrange for an audition with my band, the Pontiacs."

Mr Roberts is calling for local salesrooms and traders to watch out for anyone bringing in the accordion, which was on sale for around £80. However, he will not allow the incident to stop others from enjoying items in the shop.

"I won't change the way we do things here. Why should everybody else be penalised because of the one person that does something like this?" he said.

Anyone with information about the accordion is asked to call Carlton Antiques on 01684 573092.