A replacement ghost bike is in the process of being prepared in memory of a cyclist killed in a road collision. The ghost bike that was placed at Ormeau Bridge in South Belfast to honour the memory of Michael Caulfield has been missing for almost two weeks.

John Wright of the Critical Mass cyclists group has hit out at those who took the bike as it was a memorial to a much loved individual.

“The people who took the bike are seriously misguided. This was a tribute to a sadly missed cyclist. It was intended to be a permanent tribute.”

The Department of Regional Development has confirmed that the council did not remove the bike and the PSNI have said no report of the theft had been made to them.

South Belfast MLA Conall McDevitt condemned the removal of the tribute.

"I am very concerned that someone has taken it upon themselves to remove the bike, and utterly condemn this if it is indeed an act of vandalism. The ghost bike serves as a poignant reminder to drivers to be alert to other road users such as cyclists and pedestrians, who are just as entitled to use our roads."

John Wright has said the group will continue to promote road safety until the DOE take notice. The group insists that respect to the family will remain a priority.

“We have always bowed to the wishes of Geraldine (the widow) and will continue to do so.”