KEEPING your prized possessions under lock and key took on a whole new meaning for one unlucky teenager.

Fire fighters were called to an unusual request from a concerned parent in Brookvale on Saturday night because a 16-year-old boy had managed to get a bicycle lock stuck around his neck, which wouldn't open.

The fire crew arrived to find the embarrassed teenager with a heavy duty 'U' type lock securely fastened around his neck.

The family had already attempted to ease the lock open using the keys but had proved unsuccessful.

Fire fighters used the heavy duty cutting gear normally used to help cut people out of cars during traffic accidents to release the youngster from his shackle.

Unable to watch, his mother had to leave the room as the crew prepared to cut away the lock.

Crew manager Ade Brown said: "Five seconds later the boy's ordeal was ended as the lock was cut open without injury other than his pride."