Police officers are reminding Ashford cyclists to lock up their bicycles following a number of thefts in the area.

Bikes have been reported stolen from locations including the High Street, Bank Street, New Rents, Elwick Road and North Street over the past few months.

PC Martyn Walker from the Community Safety Unit at Kent Police said: "Bicycles can be easy targets for thieves, especially if they are not locked up.

"Cyclists can prevent themselves from becoming victims by following some simple steps.

"These include using a good quality bike lock and securing the bike to an immovable object.

"You could even use two types of lock, which would help to deter thieves who will need to use different methods to cut through them.

"Avoid leaving bikes in isolated places and consider locking up any removable parts and taking light attachments with you."

He continued: "It is also worth having a bike security-marked and making a note of the serial number along with any other unique features.

"Our officers work with partners, including the council through the Community Safety Partnership, in order to build up a bigger picture of this type of crime.

"Working together and receiving reports of bicycle theft, as and when they happen, allows us to identify problem areas and seek out those responsible."

Please remember to report any thefts to Kent Police by calling 101 or, if the crime is in progress, 999.