Police Launch Bike Theft Campaign in Weston-super-Mare

Police in Weston-super-Mare are launching a campaign to reduce bicycle thefts in the area.

More than 260 bicycles were stolen from Weston-super-Mare in 2011 so to try and reduce the probelm police have launched the 'Lock it or Lose it' campaign.

The campaign offers crime prevention advice to cyclists and has seen police team up with DataTag to offer 50% off electronic tagging chips that can be concealed inside the bicycle frame.

Officers have also visited the local schools in the area to offer young cyclists security advice.

Sgt Mark Raby said: "We hope the 'Lock it or Lose it' campaign will reduce the number of bicycles stolen in Weston – and help us to bring the offenders to justice.

"Security marking your bike will increase the chances of it being returned to you, if it is ever lost or stolen and recovered by the police."

Police are also working hard to target offenders.

Most recently, a 28-year-old man was arrested for the theft of a bicycle and later admitted to eight further similar offences.

After appearing at North Somerset Magistrates' Court on January 6, he received a one year probation supervision order.

He also has to pay £1,332 compensation to his victims and attend a 30 day 'Thinking' course.

One of his victim's, Tom Ritchey, 13, from Winscombe had his BMX stolen from outside a supermarket in November.

His mother, Karyn, said: "Tom was devastated when he realised his bike had gone - it was his pride and joy. He spent a lot of time and money doing it up, with new wheels, forks and gyro brake.

"In total it was worth about £700 and it wasn't covered under our home insurance.

"PC Dan Penny was incredibly helpful. He kept us updated regularly and I'm delighted that the offender has been arrested and taken to court.

"Tom has a new bike now – which we have insured – and all his friends are much more aware about securing their bikes when left unattended.

"I'm really pleased the police are carrying out this new campaign, and will definitely be calling DataTag to buy a security chip."

Another victim, Holly Wigmore, 23, from Weston-super-Mare, had her bicycle stolen from outside her local gym in November. She said: "I was really surprised when my bike was stolen as I put two locks on it – one locking the wheel to the frame, and another locking the frame to a post.

"I also removed the seat and I was only gone for half an hour.

"My bike was worth about £500, but it wasn't insured so have lost out on a lot of money, and I won't be buying a new bike any time soon. I'll have to walk to work from now on."

If you would like to buy an electronic DataTag please call 01932 796788. Quote Avon and Somerset Police to reduce the cost from £26 to £13.50.

For further crime prevention advice, please visit www.avonandsomerset.police.uk