Since the outbreak of Coronavirus, more of us are cycling and buying new bikes, this in turn with the good weather is increasing the rate of bike thefts in the UK.

So what can you do to protect your bike?

Buy a good lock - Thieves are lazy and mostly target cheap locks.

Mark your bike - Marking your bike with a unique code ensures that the Police will be able to identify your bike if recovered. You can register your bike online at www.bikeregister.com; if stolen and recovered, the Police can return it to you. The Police often have bike-marking events but if you are marking your bike yourself ensure the security mark is clearly visible and apply a tamper-proof sticker to the frame, warning that the bike has been marked.

Insure it – A bike can cost as much as an item of jewellery, an antique or a painting so make sure you are well covered by insurance in case of theft.

Check whether your home contents insurance covers your bike. Make sure it covers you for thefts outside the home too. If your bicycle is particularly valuable, you may need to insure it separately or add it as a specified item.

Out and about - When leaving your bike try and do so in an area that has a low theft risk whenever possible, lock your bike in a busy public place that is well lit and avoid leaving your bike unattended overnight.

At home – Always lock your bike when it’s indoors too. If possible, store your bike in a locked shed or garage, keep it out of view and secure it to an immoveable object.