CYCLISTS and students across south Birmingham are being encouraged to ‘gear up’ their bike security following a rise in theft offences.

The majority of bike thefts have happened in and around Selly Oak, with student bikes left at the back of shared housing being specifically targeted alongside those left unlocked in public spaces.

Offences have taken place recently in Bournbrook Road, Raddlebarn Road and Cecil Road.

Officers are reminding cyclists to lock away their bikes when not in use, and to ensure d-locks are used when leaving bikes in a public location.

Local police are also linking in with several bike safety groups across the city to share information and a number of bike marking days are scheduled to take place on the University of Birmingham campus.

Sergeant Mike Dunbar, responsible for policing across the Selly Oak ward, said: “Whether students are using their bikes to get to University, or simply popping out for an afternoon ride, we want them to really think about security.

“We would also urge cyclists to register their bikes for free on Immobilise.com – the national property databse.”

Where possible, cyclists are being encouraged to park their bikes in approved Cycle Storages at the University, or where these are not available, well-lit spots, ideally covered by CCTV.

PC Coy added: “We currently have a number of bikes that we have seized from suspected bike thieves across Birmingham. Some are of high value while others were essential modes of transport for their rightful owners..

Officers are also issuing the additional safety advice to increase bike security;

• Never leave your cycle on view unattended and unlocked, even if only for a short time while you pop into a shop
• Remember when securing your cycle with a lock to make sure it is attached to an immovable object – one that cannot be lifted over the locking device
• Store your cycle at home securely in a locked shed or garage or bring it inside your property.

For further crime prevention advice, and detals on future property marking initiative at the University, please follow Birmingham South Police on twitter. http://www.twitter.com/bhamsouthpolice.