CYCLISTS are being urged to remain vigilant after a spate of bike thefts in Glasgow’s West End.

Police say an increase in people cycling to work and for exercise during lockdown has meant has created more opportunities for criminals to steal and sell on.

In one case, police confirmed a bike was stolen from a close in Fergus Drive in Glasgow’s West End on Thursday and appealed for witnesses.

In another incident, two bikes are said to have been taken from a close in Clouston Street a fortnight ago, while a child’s bike was stolen from a tenement block on Wilton Street.

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Home insurer Admiral said it had seen a 46 per cent year-on-year increase in the number of claims for bicycle thefts over the seven weeks from March 23, the day the lockdown was announced. 

Superintendent Ann Bell says communities have a role to play in reducing thefts and issued some advice to cyclists.

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She said: “If you notice any suspicious behaviour in the places bicycles are typically stored, such as common stairwells/hallways, sheds or garages, report it to the police. 

“We encourage people to treat their bicycles in the same manner as they would any other vehicle – if you’re leaving it somewhere outside ensure it is secured with a solid lock and don’t leave items in panniers or bike bags.”