Bridgwater police are appealing for cyclists who have had their lights stolen to get in touch.

PC Adrian Hooper would like to hear from anyone who has had cycle lights, particularly LEDs, stolen after locking their bike in Bridgwater town centre.

He said: “If anyone has recently come back to their bicycle to find their lights had gone, I would be interested in hearing from them as it could aid a current investigation.

“I would ask people to think about where they are buying their bikes and cycle accessories from. Don't help thieves by buying stolen items.

“When buying a second-hand bike, make sure the seller owns it.”

PC Hooper can be contacted on 0845-4567000 or 01823-363292.

Top tips for bike security are:

•Invest in a heavy duty lock, the best you can afford that is a suitable style for you bike – make sure it reflects the value of your bicycle. £40 or approximately 20% of the value of your bike is a good guide.

•When you lock your bike up in public places, make sure you take anything easily removable, such as your lights, with you. If you have a quick release wheel, make sure that is chained to the frame.

•Get your bike marked by police or your local cycle shop and registered on a website such as Bike Register.com – it makes it easier for police to trace the owners if it is stolen and can also act as a deterrent. Consider electronic tagging.

•Where possible lock your bike in a specific bike park or in the site of a CCTV camera. Try not to lock your bike in the same place on a regular basis to decrease the chance of it being stolen to order.

•Take out insurance on your bike. Be sure to cover for thefts away from home. Take a photo of your bike and write a clear description of it for your own records.

If you would like further advice on keeping your bikes safe, contact your local Safer Stronger Neighbourhood team on 0845-4567000.