POLICE have issued a warning to bicycle owners following a spate of thefts in Yate and Chipping Sodbury.

So far in May, 11 bikes have been stolen from gardens, sheds and garages.

Eight were taken from properties in Yate and three from Chipping Sodbury and most were taken overnight Bank Holiday Monday, May 2 to Tuesday, May 3.

Police have recovered two of the stolen bikes and arrested a 16-year-old boy in connection with one of the thefts. He was later released on police bail pending further inquiries.

Acting Neighbourhood Sergeant Simon Webb said: "We are stepping up our patrols and stopping and speaking to cyclists to offer them crime prevention advice.

"It's possible these stolen cycles will be offered for sale second-hand. Don't get caught out. If you buy a bike which turns out to have been stolen, you could be arrested for handling stolen goods – and even if you bought it in good faith, you will lose the bike and the cash you paid for it."

He urged cyclists to get their bike security marked.

"It's important to make sure your bicycle is identifiable," said Sgt Webb.

"Not only does this improve the chances of you getting it back, but it helps us prove the theft and prosecute offenders."

Visit www.immobilise.com for further information on security marking.

Police are still trying to trace eight of the stolen bikes: a white Diamond Back BMX, a pink/purple Shimano mountain bike, a pink BMX, a blue/black Carrera road bike, a silver Ridgeback mountain bike, a silver Carrera hybrid bike, a blue and white Carrera mountain bike and a black Saracen mountain bike.

If you are offered a push bike or parts in suspicious circumstances, call Chipping Sodbury police station on 0845 456 7000 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.