BIKERS beware is the message from police in Burnley who are urging motorcycle and scooter owners to be on the guard against thieves.

The warning follows an increase in the number of bike thefts with smaller motorbikes and scooters being the most vulnerable.

On average one bike a week is going missing.

The vast majority of these are recovered by police but officers said many thefts could be prevented by following simple crime prevention advice in the first place.

Insp John Clucas of Pennine Police said: "One of the best things owners can do is to make sure the bike is parked securely, preferably chained to an immovable object even if it kept in a back yard or driveway.

"We are working hard to catch offenders and recover stolen property. What I would ask of motorcycles owners is that they play their part too.

"There are a number of very simple steps they can take to secure their bikes and I would urge them to follows these steps after all we all have a role to play in preventing crime."

Tips include:

park in a busy public place during the day or in a well lit area at night

use custom built motorcycle areas with fixed parking stands or loops where possible

always engage the steering lock and if possible attach the motorcycle to an immoveable object using a suitable locking mechanism

consider fitting a motor cycle alarm. Insp Clucas added that a wide range of crime prevention literature was available from local police stations. Anyone with concerns can call the crime prevention department at Burnley police direct on 01282 472187.