Police in Diss have launched a two-week campaign to help reduce bicycle thefts in the town.The Diss Safer Neighbourhood Team (SNT) will be carrying out extra patrols in hot spot areas and cycle owners are being offered free cycle security marking as part of the initiative, which was launched on Monday.

Police in Diss have launched a two-week campaign to help reduce bicycle thefts in the town.

The Diss Safer Neighbourhood Team (SNT) will be carrying out extra patrols in hot spot areas and cycle owners are being offered free cycle security marking as part of the initiative, which was launched on Monday.

As part of the campaign, the SNT will target suspected cycle thieves and create awareness of cycle security.

Team Sgt Dave Sutton said: “There has been a noticeable increase in cycle thefts over the past few weeks and although our investigations are ongoing, as we all know, prevention is better than cure.

“It is important that cycles are kept locked and secure at home as well as out on the street and we want to encourage everyone to not be complacent about cycle security.

“If anyone has any information in relation to cycle thefts in the area then please contact Diss Safer Neighbourhood Team on 0845 456 4567 or alternatively contact crime stoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”

Useful crime prevention tips for cycle owners;

Have a good quality lock for your bicycle - “D locks” are often the most effective.

Use a lock to secure the bike-stand, wheel rim and frame together - making it more difficult for a thief to take.

Never leave your cycle unlocked in a public place - leaving your bicycle unattended even for a minute can mean it is gone when you return.

Find a suitable location to leave and secure your cycle - dark alleys, drain-pipes and posts are all best avoided.

Get your bike security marked by your local Safer Neighbourhood Team or crime prevention officer - making it readily identifiable should it be recovered.

Overnight, and if there is room, inside the home is the most secure location to store your bike. Bikes kept in garages and sheds in particular should be properly secured.

For further information about the campaign or to speak to Diss SNT call 0845 456 4567 or visit Diss Police Station to have your cycle security marked.