Police warn Southport bike riders to buy a quality lock for your bike

Male arrested in Southport Town Centre in possession of bolt cutters after being detained by two PCSO’s.

Paul Joseph Morgan aged 36 from Southport charged with going equipped for theft as result of neighbourhood Police operation on cycle thefts.

Thefts of bikes are on the increase in Southport. In many cases the bikes stolen have not even been locked; Just left outside shops and houses. In some cases, bolt cutters or hacksaws have been used to cut locks off.

Neighbourhood officers are patrolling to try and catch those responsible and some arrests have been made however, cycle owners need to consider what measures they’re taking to keep their bikes secure.

Take these steps to reduce the risk of becoming a victim of cycle crime:

• ALWAYS lock your bike to a post, railing, tree or other secure object.

• If possible leave your bike in secure cycle storage, and even then, use a cycle lock as well.

• Spend at least 5% of the value of your bike on the best quality lock you can buy. Look for something sturdy enough to resist attack from bolt cutters or hack saws.

• Consider removing quick release wheels, saddles or other easily removable parts.

• Security mark your bike. A variety of companies offer this service free of charge. Some additional security marking methods require payment.

Neighbourhood officers are available to register bikes on thewww.immobilise.com database at any of the 16 Police Surgeries that are. to be held between October and the end of December, listed elsewhere on this web page. Look out for more ‘Bike Marking’ events over the next few weeks.

For more information, click on the link attached to the Home Office booklet ‘Stop them taking your bike for a ride’.

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