AN entrepreneur has combined his passion for motorbikes with his expertise in design and engineering to develop a deterrent to reduce cycle thefts.

Glenn Schofield, from Newcastle, believes his VLok tear-shaped anti-theft motorcycle lock could achieve global popularity and is currently in negotiations with a leading international parking company.

Mr Schofield, who worked with the National Criminal Intelligence Service to develop the device, decided to start the project after a career designing, building and racing motorbikes.

He gave up his job with British Aerospace to concentrate on developing the VLok.

"A biker rides the front wheel of the bike into the tear-shaped VLok and the wheel and spokes are completely concealed, making it impenetrable by thieves or vandals," he said.

The UK has the highest rate of motorcycle theft in Europe, and is significantly higher than the theft rate for cars.

"Across many cities, there are no free parking bays for bikes so, with the VLok, I aim to reduce motorcycle theft," said Mr Schofield.

Paul Miller, from Entrust, which has supported the development of the VLok, said: "Glenn's invention has been really well thought out and has caught the attention of those in vehicle safety."