POLICE are vowing to put the brakes on bicycle thieves after a series of thefts in Wrexham.
The pledge comes after a dealer claimed bicycle theft is becoming a growing problem in the town.
Simon Hall, who runs the Bike Shed in Penybryn, said a child’s ornamental bike, which was bolted to the outside wall of his shop, was stolen overnight on Friday.
He said: “It is totally worthless but shows how bad the situation is in Wrexham regarding stealing bikes.
“I closed at about 5pm on Thursday and when I came to open up on Friday morning I found the theft had happened. Things like this make you wonder if it is worth continuing in business. I have been trading for just over 12 months.”
Another victim of the bicycle thieves is Darren Rastall of High Street, Wrexham, whose specialised mountain bike, which cost £1,200, was stolen at the end of August, also from the Penybryn area.
“I bought it in December at a police auction. They are worth £3,000 brand new. It was stolen when I went into a shop in Penybryn. I turned my head for just a moment and when I looked again it was gone,” he said.
“It’s an awful feeling when your expensive bike has been stolen, it is like someone has invaded your private space and really hits you for six. There are so many bikes going missing in this area at the moment.”
Inspector Alex Goss said resources are being used to tackle thieves who are making off with bikes.
He said: “A number of operations are being undertaken by officers in Wrexham to tackle the theft of bicycles. To date this work has resulted in a number of arrests being made and some individuals have been charged.
“I urge anyone who has information regarding the theft of bikes to contact local officers on 101. Individuals can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously with information on 0800 555 111.”