Police urge cyclists to mark their bikes 

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22 Sep 2010

Officer with bikesPolice in Chester are reminding cyclists of the importance of security marking their bikes and storing as much information about it as possible in case it gets stolen.

In recent weeks police have recovered several bikes which are believed to have been lost or stolen. However, officers have not been able to track down the rightful owner on many occasions.

PC Paul Tinson said: “When a bike gets stolen the victim can often only tell us the make and colour of their bike, which does not make it easy to return the property if several people have reported the theft of similar bikes.

“I would urge people to keep a note of the frame number and any other details they have that makes their bike specific to them. Writing your postcode on the frame with a UV pen also helps.”

Local Neighbourhood Policing Teams also organise regular bike marking days, where a postcode is permanently etched onto the bike.

Officer are also asking cyclists to make sure there bikes are locked away securely even if they are only left for a few minutes to avoid them being stolen.

PC Tinson said: “If you are out and about on your bike, invest in a good lock and use it. When storing your bike at home, lock in securely in a shed or garage and keep it out of view of windows.

“Simple steps can help you avoid becoming a victim of crime.”

For more information on upcoming bike marking days leave a message for the Chester Outer Neighbourhood Policing Unit on 0845 458 6375 or email chester.outer.npt@cheshire.pnn.police.uk.