WILTSHIRE Police are appealing for information following the theft of a number of bicycles in Salisbury.

The incidents all took place between Wednesday, September 3 and Sunday, October 12 at a number of different locations in the city centre.

On all but one occasion, the stolen bicycle was utilising a form of security lock. The bicycles that have been stolen range from a small child's BMX to a mountain bike valued at £900.

Wiltshire Police officers will be in the Old George Mall, Salisbury on Friday between 3pm to 4pm to offer crime prevention advice for anyone who is concerned about bicycle safety. Alternatively, some simple safety tips below could help prevent you from becoming a victim of bike theft:

• Lock the frame and both wheels to a cycle stand or strong immovable object. Ensure your bike can’t be lifted over the top of any posts

• Lock your bike in a busy, well lit and CCTV covered area

• Use two different locks – theft is less likely as thieves need different tools to break each one

• Use recognised security locks – D-locks to the Sold Secure standard or heavy chain locks with closed shackle Sold Secure padlocks

• Make the locks and bike hard to manoeuvre. Secure your bike as close to the stand as possible

• Keeps locks off the ground. Mark your frame with your postcode in two places, one of which should be hidden

• Try not to leave your bike in the same place every day

• Register your bike's serial number for free with immobilise.com; the national property register

• Take a photo of your bike and the serial number

• Include your bike in your home contents insurance for thefts outside the home.

Anyone with information about any of the stolen bicycles is asked to contact PCSO Gemma McIndoe at Wiltshire Police via 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where information can be left anonymously.