POLICE in the Vale of the White Horse are urging cyclists to take more care of their bicycles following an increase in cycle thefts from town centres.

Since January 1, 21 bicycles have been stolen from Abingdon town centre, nine from Wantage and four from Faringdon.

Roger Foster, crime reduction advisor said: "It is good to know that people are using their bikes to get to and fro but I would like to offer some simple advice to cyclists, to help them to look after their cycles.

The advice is as follows:

  • Park your bicycle safely and considerately where it will not cause an obstruction to others.
  • Always lock your bicycle when you leave it unattended, even if it is only for a few minutes while you pop into a local shop.
  • Lock your bicycle through the frame and if possible to a fixed structure such as a railing.
  • Secure your bicycle in well lit areas and if possible in areas where town centre CCTV operates.
  • Lock the wheels and other detachable parts.
  • Mark your bicycle with your postcode and house number, ideally with high visibility tamper proof labels.
  • Take a photograph of your bicycle - in the event of loss or theft it may help its recovery.