Police in Great Yarmouth are warning cyclists to be vigilant following a spate of bicycle thefts in the district.

Officers have seen an increase in the number of bikes being stolen in recent weeks and are urging cyclists to ‘proper lock’ their bicycles.

Supt Roger Wiltshire said: “It is unclear why we are seeing a rise in bicycle thefts in the area and we are keen to find out where these bikes are being taken or what they are being used for.

“I would encourage residents to be vigilant and report any suspicious behaviour to officers, such as being offered a cheap bike for sale or someone acting suspiciously around parked bicycles.

“In the meantime, it is important that cyclists take appropriate measures to secure their bikes, such as using a good fitting lock, and prevent themselves from becoming a victim crime.”

Other top tips for cycle security include:

• Use a heavy-duty bike lock, similar to a D-lock and certified by Sold Secure.

• Avoid isolated or dimly lit places – leave your bike where a potential thief will be clearly visible.

• If yours is a very expensive bike, don’t lock it in the same place on a regular basis – so it won’t be noticed and stolen to order.

• Lock your bike through an immovable object – use a proper bike rack, ground anchor or robust street furniture.

• Make the lock or chain hard to manoeuvre when parked.

• Keep the gap between the bike and lock small.

• Anyone with information about bike thefts should contact Norfolk Constabulary on 101 or report it anonymously to independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

To see how easy it is for thieves to steal a bicycle, visit #ProperLockIt at www.norfolk.police.uk/news/campaigns/proper-lock-it