POLICE have appealed to cyclists in a Wearside town to take crime prevention measures to safeguard their cycles this summer.
More than 150 bikes have been reported stolen to officers in Washington since Christmas, including many children's presents.
Of those, more than 70 per cent were not locked and the average value was £240.
Washington Crime Prevention Officer, PC Joe Watson, said: "We advise people not to make it easy for thieves to help themselves to your property.
"Getting your cycle marked is a good way of making it less attractive to thieves."
Northumbria Police is organising a free cycle marking session at the Harraton Community Centre, Rickleton, Washington, on Saturday, from 3pm to 5pm. For prevention advice call PC Watson on 0191-454 7555 ext 66456.
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