CYCLE thefts in Blackburn are set to burst through the 700 barrier this year - just as local bike thieves are preparing to move into top gear.

The figures have prompted police to launch a Christmas security campaign in a bid to combat thefts and ensure more victims get their bicycles back.

Figures for Blackburn division show 682 bicyles have been stolen already in 1996 and thieves are preparing to prey on youngsters who receive a new bike as a present.

Police have warned that many bikes they do recover are never returned to their owners because they do not have enough information to positively identify them. Leaflets with the slogan 'Lock It, List It, Don't Lose It' are being distributed to all main cycle dealers in the area, giving hints on how to deter thieves.

The leaflet contains a form with room for a picture of the bicycle, the frame number and other details so owners can keep a record of the bike in case it is taken.

Police are also offering a free cycle coding service at the Simmons Street garage in Blackburn, between 10am and midday and 2pm and 4pm on Monday, December 30.

Sgt Alan Holt of Blackburn Police said: "The figures show that pedal cycles are being stolen in Blackburn at the rate of two a day.

"A number are recovered by officers but one of the reasons they are not returned to their owners is that they are unable to give a detailed enough description of their bike so it can be identified.

"We are actively trying to deter cycle thieves and encouraging people to lock up their bikes when they are not using them.

"But if people record as much information as they can about their bike, they are more likely to get it back if it is taken."

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