Police investigate spate of bike thefts in Shrewsbury

Police are investigating a spate of bike thefts from sheds and outbuildings in Shrewsbury.

Since 1st April 2016, there have been thirteen such offences, with pedal cycles being targeted.

West Mercia Police say the Porthill and Belle Vue areas of Shrewsbury have been particularly hit, with nine cycles being stolen overnight from four properties on Porthill.

Local Safer Neighbourhood Teams are visiting properties in the area to provide reassurance and crime prevention advice. Officers are requesting residents to remain vigilant, reporting any suspicious behaviour via 101 or anonymously via Crimestoppers, and to consider tightening security on their sheds and outbuildings.

Officers are also keen to hear from anyone offered cheap, second-hand pedal cycles, or parts from pedal cycles, for sale either locally or online through sites such as eBay and Gumtree.

Inspector Edward Hancox said: "We are aware of a number of burglaries and thefts in Shrewsbury where pedal cycles have been stolen. We are looking at a number of different options to track down offenders and recover stolen property, but in the meantime, we encourage residents in Shrewsbury to consider security of sheds and outbuildings to prevent further thefts taking place. We also support the recording and marking of pedal cycles to aide return to their rightful owners should they be found."