Worcester Cyclists Can Help 'Frame' Bike Thieves

PC Mike Stephenson and PC Julie Jones showcase some of the bike security measures you can use.Police in Worcester are urging city cyclists to take greater care when it comes to securing their bikes - including having them ‘security-marked' and keeping a record of their frame numbers.

Two partially dismantled bikes recovered from an address in the Arboretum area of the city do not - to date - match any stolen bike reports. Although they both have clearly stamped frame numbers, officers still cannot identify the owners.

"While the bikes are not complete, we are sure that the owners would still want them returned - but we can't do that as we can't link them to the owners," said Arboretum Local Policing Officer Julie Jones.

"It is frustrating not to be able to re-unite these - and other recovered bikes - with their owners either because they have not been reported as stolen or, in a few cases, where we can't confirm they are the legitimate owner. A matching frame number would deal with either situation."

Between April 2009 and March 2010, 278 bike thefts were reported to Worcester Police, an average of 23 per calendar month, compared with 315 in the previous year (26 per month). The highest number of thefts - 49 - occurred in October 2008 and the lowest - 13 - in January 2010.

In the latest theft, a £400 red Carrera Vulcan, left secured outside the All Saints building at Worcester Technical College, Deansway, was ridden off towards Worcester Cathedral between 0900 and 1045 hours on 4 May.

Mike Stephenson, Crime Risk Manager for South Worcestershire, said: "In this case the bike had been secured but this is why it is very important for everyone to security-mark their bikes with a system such as ‘Selectamark' or ‘SmartWater'. Then, if a bike is stolen and recovered it is easier to trace it back to its owner.

"It is also extremely important that cyclists invest in high-quality bike locks and always secure them to proper cycle stands and racks, in well lit areas - and near CCTV, wherever possible.

"As more of us choose to ride bikes, as opposed to get in our cars, we must all work to make pedal-cycle theft difficult for potential criminals. The police continue to work closely with other agency partners to provide and enhance high-quality facilities for bike security."

Witnesses, or anyone who believes they know where the Carrera bike may be now, is asked to call police on 0300 333 3000, quoting 341S/040510. Information can also be given - anonymously - to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

• Anyone who wants advice on how best to secure and mark their bike can contact their Local Policing Team, also on 0300 333 3000.

Issued: Wednesday 26 May 2010