Witness appeal after bike stolen from Hillside Station, Southport

by
15th May 2015

Do you recognise this man?

British Transport Police (BTP) is appealing for information after a bike was stolen from Hillside station.

Officers believe the man in the image could have information about the theft which took place on Sunday, 19 April at around 5pm.

Investigating officer PC Jane McGee said: “A man used bolt cutters to cut through the chain that was securing a racer style bicycle fastened to a bike rack in the booking office area.  The man then cycled to Birkdale on the bike where he boarded a train.”

Officers urge the man in the picture or anyone who recognises him to come forward to assist with their enquiries.

Anyone with information is asked to contact British Transport Police on 0800 40 50 40, or text 61016, quoting reference PSUB/B13 of 14/05/2015. Information can also be passed anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111

ADVICE FOR KEEPING YOUR BIKE SAFE AND SECURE:

· Bicycles are a popular target for thieves. Here are some simple tips to ensure your cycle remains secure:

· Always lock your bicycle whenever you leave it at a designated cycle rack area. Lock the frame and both wheels to a cycle stand.

· Consider using more than one lock to secure your bike and ensure that you use a recognised security standard lock. D-locks, extension cable or heavy chain locks are certified locking mechanisms. It is important to ensure that yours are up to date.

· Make the lock(s) and bike hard to manoeuvre when parked by ensuring little room between the stand and the bike.

· Do not allow your lock(s) to come into contact with the ground, where they are viewed as more vulnerable.

· Take a photograph of your bike and record your frame number and key details. This will be crucial in recovering your bike if it is stolen.

· Mark your frame with your postcode in two separate locations, one of which should be hidden. Attach a ‘Coded Cycle’ label to reduce the risk of making your bike a target for theft.

· Do not ride with valuables in open baskets or panniers.

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