CYCLISTS are being warned to lock up their bikes after a number of thefts in Colchester and Harwich.

Most recently, a dark grey mountain bike worth £100 was stolen from Forest Road, Colchester, between 10.30pm on Monday and 8am on Tuesday.

It was kept in a garden, but the gate was unlocked.

In Harwich, a silver bike worth £250 was stolen from Beach Road on Saturday between 3am and 7.30am. It had also been left unlocked.

Colin Stiff, crime reduction officer for Colchester, said there were a variety of simple steps that cyclists could take to avoid the same thing happening to them.

“Too frequently, bikes are left insecure in isolated areas,” he explained. “This only makes it easier for opportunist thieves.

“Don’t leave the bike propped up against a wall or at the kerbside; make sure it is locked up with a solid and secure chain and padlock. Buying one of these will almost certainly be cheaper than buying a new bike.

“Make sure you security code or mark your cycle and make note of the frame number – in the event that it gets stolen it will be easier for us to trace.”

He continued: “Where at all possible, keep your bike somewhere secure such as a garage or shed and, if you do have to leave it somewhere, make sure it is in a prominent and well-lit area.”

For more advice call Mr Stiff on 01206 717624.