Concern after spate of motorbike thefts

POLICE are today urging motorcycle enthusiasts to step up security after a spate of bike thefts in Trimley.

There have been at least three incidents in the twin villages of St Martin and St Mary in the past few weeks.

Police believe it could be a gang targeting the area, though officers do not yet know if the crimes are connected.

Trials rider Andy Coe was left reeling after he returned home to Grimston Lane, Trimley St Martin, to discover the shed where he kept his trials bikes had been broken into and his Honda TLR 200 and Beta Rev3 270 gone.

Fortunately for Mr Coe, a member of Ipswich Motorcycle Club who rides in events all over Suffolk, Essex and Norfolk, his bikes were later recovered.

John Arnold, of High Road, had a unique �10,000 custom-made Harley Davidson stolen ten days ago from his garage.

The 40-year-old, who works for an insulation company, was in the middle of repairing a problem with the bike's handlebars and believed it would have taken three people to move it. He was not convinced it was just someone walking past who took a chance.

Another resident, Peter Highfield, whose outbuildings were also targeted, said: “We have also had a motorbike stolen from a garage, a competition bike that was not insured.

“It's time more was done about this kind of crime.”

Suffolk police said strong locks should be fitted to sheds, outbuildings and garages and mesh or bars on windows to conceal property and deter criminals from breaking in.

Vehicles should be kept in locked garages, or parked in open, well lit areas. Hedges and shrubs should be cut back, and fences, gates and walls kept in good repair.

Officers also advised people to security mark items and take photos of them.

Anyone with information about the bike thefts should call Felixstowe police on 01473 613500 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

Have you been a victim of crime? Write to Your Letters, Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN or e-mail eveningstarletters@eveningstar.co.uk