Bike thefts soaring in Herts

7:42am Wednesday 6th February 2008

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BIKE theft is steadily growing in Hertfordshire as the popularity of cycling spreads, new figures reveal.

With more and more people switching to peddle power, cycle thefts have risen by 36 per cent over the last six years.

St Albans MP Anne Main said: "Unfortunately, these statistics show that bike thefts continue to increase annually and I think this is a cause for concern.

"The victims are often young people or those who have chosen to pursue a more sustainable lifestyle.

"Bicycles cut down on unnecessary car use, and are an economic and green option, and this is why these figures are so frustrating.

"We need to be encouraging people to be greener but if there are real risks your bike might be pinched in the process, the battle is that much harder."

She has asked the district council and First Capital Connect, which runs St Albans City Station where many bikes are stolen, to work with police to reduce thefts.

Home Office statistics released after parliamentary questioning, show stolen bicycles in Hertfordshire increasing from 1,339 in 2001/2 to 1,826 in 2006/7, although national figures are steady.