DOZENS of cyclists have secured their bikes from would-be thieves thanks to free security marking by the police.

As part of their Summer Nights campaign to crack down on seasonal crime, Darlington police marked 34 bikes with a security number, which makes it easier for stolen bikes to be reunited with their owners.

The security marking was held as part of the monthly Darlington Sunday People’s Market, and mechanics from BikeStop, based in Skinnergate, were also on hand to offer free bike check-ups to cyclists.

Co-founder of the market, Samantha Blackham, said the day was a huge success with 40 different stalls from traders from across the North-East lining Northgate and High Row.

“It was one of the busiest markets we’ve had – the town was buzzing,” she said. “The weather and the bank holiday weekend probably helped.

“We try to offer something different at every market, and this time we had Punch and Judy for the children as well as face painting, which were really popular.”

Darlington musicians, Willow Creek, Kickshaws, and Anthony Davison, also performed at the market and organisers are appealing for any musicians who would like to perform at the monthly event to email dspm.darlington@live.co.uk

For more information or to book a stall at next month’s market visit facebook.com/dspmsundays