Victims of bicycle-theft in Harrogate district urged to claim back their property

Following a spate of bicycle thefts in the Harrogate and Nidderdale areas in the last three months, police are encouraging victims to check if their property has been recovered.
By The Newsroom
Published 27th Jun 2016, 09:44 BST
Updated 27th Jun 2016, 10:48 BST

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Police have recovered a large number of items from a house in Harrogate.Police have recovered a large number of items from a house in Harrogate.
Police have recovered a large number of items from a house in Harrogate.

Officers found a large number of cycle parts including frames, forks, wheels as well as other suspected stolen items at an address in the town on Wednesday June 22.

Now police have turned to Facebook to help reunite this property with its rightful owners.

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Inspector Alex Langley, of Harrogate Police, said: "We're asking people to view these items online, to try to identify any of the suspected stolen property, regardless of whether they have reported the matter to police previously or not.

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"Meanwhile, proactive enquiries are in hand to continue to tackle cycle crime in Harrogate, with numerous property marking opportunities in the district over the coming weeks."

Those who have had property stolen in recent months can view an image gallery featuring all the suspected stolen property on the NYP Facebook page.

If you are able to identify an item, contact North Yorkshire Police on 101, select option 1 and quote reference number 12160109604.

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Police ask that you have your contact details, the four-digit item number shown on the online gallery, the reason why you believe the item is yours and any associated crime reference numbers ready.

North Yorkshire Police also encouraged people to take extra measures to protect their property from theft such as security marking their bikes so they are easier to find when stolen.

Insp Langley said: "Often people feel that because they have bought a cycle lock that means their bike is secure and will not be stolen. Unfortunately, criminals have access to bolt croppers and wire cutters, and locking a bike to a fire escape in an isolated back street or private area only gives criminals more time and freedom to remove your lock and then make off unseen and unheard.

North Yorkshire Police Tips to protect your bike:

- Always lock your bike when it is unattended

- Ensure that your lock is fit for purpose and could not be simply snapped or pulled apart with minimal force

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- Think about where you are parking your bike, leaving it in a public place makes it more difficult for thieves to steal it with no one watching

- Always ensure your bike is secured inside a garage or shed, and do not risk leaving it unattended overnight