WE are currently investigating a number of recent bicycle thefts in Penarth.

While enquiries are continuing into these incidents, I would like to provide residents with some crime prevention advice, following the increase in thefts.

Bikes are popular targets for thieves as an increasing number of people are investing in high-value models.

Many burglaries and thefts are opportunistic, therefore it is important to ensure your property is secure in order to deter thieves and keep your bike safe.

Always lock your bicycle wherever you leave it and invest in a good quality lock. Remember to lock the bike to an immovable object in a well-lit, busy public area.

It’s important to keep your bike secure at home too - if you keep your bike within a garage, shed or other such outhouse, please remember to secure your bike and lock that building at all times.

If you own an expensive model, then make sure you keep your bike out of view of prying eyes and be vigilant when returning from rides.

We recommend that you get your bike marked and registered it for free at Immobilise.com

The Penarth Neighbourhood Policing Team regularly hold bike marking events where officers will register your bicycle. Keep an eye out on the Barry and Vale of Glamorgan Twitter account for information on the next bike marking events.

As ever, please get in touch with your local police teams if you have any concerns or want to raise any issues. Anyone with information about the recent thefts can call us on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

For more crime prevention advice please visit https://www.south-wales.police.uk/en/advice/bicycle-theft/