Police are urging bike owners to lock up their cycles after a spate of thefts across the South Lakes.

Over the last month 11 bicycles, some worth more than £2,000, have been stolen from areas including; Kendal, Windermere, Allithwaite, Bowness, Flookburgh and Burneside. Police are working to tackle the thefts and are raising awareness of crime prevention advice to help cyclists take steps to prevent themselves from becoming a target for thieves.

Terry Belshaw, Community Safety Officer for the South Lakes area, said: “Pedal cycles are a convenient and healthy way to travel and most South Cumbrian households have at least one – however they are also a valuable target for thieves. We are working hard to bring offenders to justice and return stolen property to rightful owners however we need the public’s help. By taking a few extra precautions and following some simple steps, such as locking up their cycles, owners can help prevent themselves becoming victims of unscrupulous thieves.

“Never leave your cycle on view unattended and unlocked - even if only for a short time outside your home, on the back of your car, or when you are just popping into a shop. Cycles should not be left unattended for long periods, ie outside the house overnight. If kept in a garage or shed they should be secured, preferably to an anchor point, and they should not be on view to passers by.  The shed or garage should of course be secured with a lock.  When travelling with cycles on the car, try not to leave them unattended on a car park overnight, but if that is a necessity, think about where and how you park - make it difficult for the thief.

“Remember when securing your cycle with a lock to make sure it attached is to an immovable object - one that cannot be lifted over the locking device.  Use two locks wherever possible, and try and lock the wheels and the frame to an immovable point. Always have your cycle security marked - this can be done free of charge by your local policing team, bike marking is an effective deterrent and enables Police to return found and stolen cycles to the owners. A little thought about cycle security will go a long way to ensuring that your bicycle remains in your possession and not that of a thief!”

Any witnesses to theft, or anyone who has been offered a bike for sale under suspicious circumstances, is urged to call Police on 0845 33 00 247 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

For more crime prevention information or to discuss the police bike marking scheme, please contact your local Neighbourhood Policing Team by dropping into your local police station or calling 0845 33 00 247. To find out more about policing in your area, or to have your say, pop along to your nearest Safer, Stronger Community (SSC) meeting. Details of your nearest SSC can be found by logging on to www.cumbria.police.uk or asking any police officer.