Do not give thieves an easy ride and get bikes security marked - that’s the advice to cyclists from Thanet police.

They say it will not only act as a deterrent, but if cycles are stolen the chances of returning them to their owners are greatly increased.

Youth crime reduction officer PC Jacky Whitehead is planning to visit secondary schools across the island to stamp cycles with tamper proof stickers and record the details on a national database, www.immobilise.com.

She said: “My son had his bike taken while he was in the hairdressers. It was recovered in a secondhand store in Cliftonville and we got it back because we had the frame’s serial number. Many people do not do that, but it could save a lot of trouble in future. It is hoped that by urging people to be vigilant, they can prevent a much-loved gift becoming hot property for a thief.”

The advice is being issued as part of Kent Police’s Safer Winter campaign, part of which aims to help people keep their home and belongings safe over the next few months.

Handy hints and tips

Register your bicycle model, make and frame number; take a clear, colour photograph of it and make a written record of its description, including any unique features; mark the bicycle; keep it locked in a secure garage or shed; secure it to an immovable object or consider installing a floor or wall-mounted anchor lock; always lock your bicycle, even if you are just leaving it for a couple of minutes; secure removable parts; make the lock and bike hard to manoeuvre when parked to stop thieves smashing the lock open; use products that have been tested against attack.

When buying a second-hand bike, make sure the seller owns it. When buying a new bike, purchase from a recognised dealer.