Police issue warning after spate of bicycle thefts

The police said several bicycles had been reported stolen in the past week

Cyclists have been warned to make sure their bicycles are secured properly when leaving them unattended after a spate of thefts on the Isle of Man.

The Isle of Man Constabulary said 10 bikes had been reported stolen over the past week.

Police urged people to "take some simple but important steps to keep their bikes secure".

They included using a good quality security lock attached through the wheel and frame to a solid stand, leaving it in a well-lit area with CCTV coverage, and making sure bikes were registered.

A police spokesman said a scheme covering the island and the UK would enable the force to recover and return stolen bikes to their owners.

Having information such as the make, model and frame number along with photos of the bicycle could "greatly assist officers in identifying and returning bikes if they are recovered", he added.

Anyone storing bicycles at home has been advised to keep them in a locked shed or garage wherever possible and use additional measures such as a strong chain or ground anchor.

E-bike owners have also been warned to remove the battery when not in use and the all bike-users have been warned not to leave valuables inside attached baskets.