POLICE are renewing their appeal for information after a spate of scooter and motorbike thefts in Salisbury in the last eight months.

Officers have been notified of nearly 50 vehicles being stolen from various areas in the city and are urging people to be aware of the ongoing problem and keep their property secure.

Several of the stolen motorbikes have been recovered burnt out on Wilton Estate land between Bemerton Heath and Land Command in Wilton.

PCSO Olly Royston said: “This is a serious concern as we believe that the offenders are carrying petrol which is clearly a fire hazard.

“Research has shown that offenders tend to locate the bikes during the day and then come back to steal them once it gets dark.

“Our investigations are ongoing but we need the community to help us by coming forward with information.”

Advice given by the police includes:

  • not leaving the bike/scooter on view at the front of your house
  • chaining it to a secure object
  • fitting a good quality lock to the brakes and steering column
  • visiting your local motorbike dealer or contacting the Bemerton Heath neighbourhood policing team to seek crime prevention advice
  • considering data registering your bike
  • reporting any suspicious activity around a motorcycle (especially someone pushing one)

    Anyone with information is asked to contact the Bemerton Heath neighbourhood policing team on 0845 4087000, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.