POLICE are to hold cycle surgeries at a number of railway stations across the region as part of a ‘day of action’ aimed at raising awareness of bicycle theft.

The surgeries will offer security marking for commuters’ bikes, while leaflets and crime prevention advice will also be dished out to those using two wheels.

The day of action, organised by British Transport Police, is taking place on Tuesday (December 10). Last year bikes worth more than £1.5m were stolen from Britain’s railway stations.

York tops the list in the region for cycle thefts with 26 taken in the last 12 months, followed by Darlington with 12 thefts.

Most thefts occur between 6pm and 7pm at night, while Monday is the day when most bikes are stolen, thought to be because of bikes being stored at stations over weekends.

Police say the best way to deter thieves is to use a good quality ‘gold standard’ lock and ensure bikes are marked and registered.

Superintendent Jason Bunyard said: “Thieves need to operate quickly to reduce their chances of being caught, having a heavy duty lock will make their job much more difficult and they are more likely to abandon any attempt to steal your bike.

“It’s quite surprising that someone would spend more than £1000 on a bike then use a £5 lock to secure it.

“Also, don’t be tempted in purchasing a bargain bike online, from someone on the street or down the pub with no questions asked.

“ You could be prosecuted for handling stolen goods and will be landed with a criminal record. Always insist on a proof of ownership and check the bike frame number on Bikeregister.com.”