POLICE are hoping to put the brakes on a spate of cycle thefts.

Uniformed officers with the Redcar-based District Community Policing Team are carrying out a range of checks in target areas.

Cyclists will be stopped and bikes checked to see if the person riding is the owner.

Officers will be equipped with special scanning devices that can read electronic chips fitted to most bikes.

The operation has been sparked by a spate of thefts from garden sheds in the area. Five cycles worth a total of more than £2,500 have been taken.

Det Insp Steve Richards, of Langbaurgh District Police, said: "Thieves are targeting high-value pedal cycles and this spate of thefts is concerning.

"Taking some preventative measures to protect your property will go a long way towards reducing the chance of this crime happening to you."

Householders are urged to take a series of simple precautions to protect their property.

These include lock and fasten any gates at the back of the garden; illuminate footpaths and sheds with dusk to dawn lighting; security lock sheds and garage doors; and alarm sheds and post a message on them to this effect.

Anyone requiring further information and advice about security matters can call Jim Brown, District Crime Prevention Officer, on (01642) 302071 and anyone with information about the theft of pedal cycles should call the Langbaurgh Community Police Team on (01642) 302618 or Crimestoppers on (0800) 555111.