Bike theft warning, Teesdale Mercury

POLICE have issued advice on protecting motorbikes after six were stolen in Teesdale last year.

New statistics released by the police show six were taken in the Barnard Castle policing area in 2009. The area does not include Evenwood, Toft Hill or Etherley. Across the county 303 were stolen.

Police hope the figures will persuade bikers to ensure their beloved machines are properly secured.

Almost 40 per cent of those stolen were small capacity bikes such as mopeds and scooters while 34 per cent were off-roaders.

About 27 per cent were larger capacity bikes over 125cc.

More than 62 per cent were stolen from outside houses or in public areas while 35 per cent were taken from sheds or garages. Less than three per cent were stolen form garages incorporated or attached to houses.

Sixty-six per cent of the bikes were parked up with no form of security at all.

Sgt Iain Rodgers, head of the motorcycling unit, said keeping bikes secure was paramount. He said: “It’s easy to see that the vast majority of stolen bikes in the force area continue to be small scooter or learner legal bikes left unattended and insecure. 

“Keeping these bikes out of view from opportunistic thieves and locking them with some additional security device could have a dramatic effect on the numbers stolen and prevent you from becoming a victim of crime.

“An added problem often encountered, is that many off-road machines from motocross bikes, kids’ pit bikes to quad bikes are owned by people who frequently have no idea of the frame or engine numbers.

“As a consequence, if the police come across a stolen bike without the numbers having been given to them at the time it was stolen then they have little chance of identifying it as stolen or of linking it to the original owner.

“They can’t keep it, so have no option to give it back to the very person that may have been the thief.

“Please make sure that you have a record of all the frame and engine numbers of your machine and keep them safe. 

“By doing so you’ll increase the chances of getting your bike returned in the event of it being stolen and the offender is more likely to be brought before the courts.

“To reduce your chances of becoming a victim invest in a security product that will stop your machine from simply being pushed or lifted away.

“There are a whole host of security products on sale both in dealers and on websites; have a look at them and read the reviews before you decide what to buy but whatever you buy use it.

“If you have any information on stolen motorcycles or parts and you don’t want to provide your details don’t forget that you can use Crimestoppers anonymously by telephoning 0800 555 111.”

The police run Bikewise which is aimed at helping motorbike enthusiasts use their machines legally and responsibly.

Future events include the Easter Egg run on Sunday, April 4, and a meet on Sunday, July 25, both in Durham City.

For more information on Bikewise log on to www.durham.police.uk/

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