TWO Chester police inspectors are calling on people to help put a stop to cycle thefts in the city.

The past few months have seen a number of operations designed specifically to target those responsible for stealing bikes.

And while the number of thefts dropped during, and just after, the operations the underlying problem has never been completely eradicated.

And it seems some bike owners could do more to help break the cycle of increasing thefts, according to Chester Inspectors Mel Williams and Ian Thorp.

Inspector Thorp, of Chester Outer Neighbourhood Policing Unit, said: “Chester officers have put a lot of effort into crime reduction and detection.

“Yet this work will only be truly successful if bike owners also take responsibility for their belongings.

“The vast majority of people are extremely careful with the cycles and employ good security tactics.

“But there are still some whose methods of securing their bikes is sadly lacking and is making life easy for criminals.

“When storing your bike at home always make sure it is kept indoors in the house, garage, shed or other building. Use a good quality lock to fix the frame of the bike to something solid and permanent – never use the wheels or attaché the bike to something else which could be easily moved or cut.

“If possible, invest in a form of ground anchoring system which locks the cycle in place and will deter all but the most persistent thieves.”

During the past week there have been at least 10 thefts of pedal cycles in Chester and Inspector Williams is keen to stress that bikes are particularly vulnerable when left in the city centre.

He said: “It can be very tempting, when cycling in the city, to leave your bike propped against a wall when you pop into a shop. But it only takes a few seconds for a thief to pounce and ride away with your bike.

“Locking your bike with a strong chain, or purpose made device, might add a few minutes delay to your plans, but it can make all the difference and could prevent you from becoming a victim of crime.

“Officers from Chester Inner Neighbourhood Policing Unit will be on patrol in the city centre and will be on the lookout for cycle thieves, but prevention is better than detection and cyclists can play a key role in reducing opportunities for criminals.

“By working together the police and the public can make sure thieves don’t get an easy ride.”

Yesterday, Tuesday, October 7, officers in Chester arrested two youths on suspicion of stealing cycles.

Earlier today a 15-year-old local male was charged with taking a pedal cycle without consent and has been bailed to appear at Chester Youth Court on October 15.

A 16-year-old local male remains in custody and is helping police with their enquiries.