Cycle security

There are around 150 cycle thefts in Borough each year. Make sure you're not a victim by following a few simple rules.

Buy a decent lock - or preferably two. D-locks, cable locks or good old chain and padlocks - there are various types of lock for securing your bike. Expect to pay £40 plus for a decent lock.

Get insurance. An easy way to do this is to extend your home contents insurance to cover your bicycle - but make sure it covers thefts outside the home. If your bike is particularly valuable you may need to insure it separately.

When locking your bike, consider these tips.

• If you leave your bike in a public space, make sure it is left somewhere where everyone can see it - people will also see if someone is trying to steal it.

• Make sure the lock catches the bike frame as well as the wheel and the post. If it only goes through the wheel a thief may steal the bike and leave the wheel behind. Lock both wheels in this way.

• Use a bike stand, if there is one available, because grills and gates can be cut with bolt cutters.

• Don't leave your bike in the same place every day - it will be noticed.

• Locks can also be picked, so face the lock to the ground (but not resting on it) so it can't easily be turned upwards for picking.

• Make it impossible for a thief to smash the lock open. Fill the D part of a lock with as much of the bike as possible and never leave the lock lying on the pavement - a lock can be sledgehammered easily when it's resting on the ground.

• Take with you any items that can be removed without tools - wheels, lights, pump, computer, panniers, seat post and saddle. These can go even if you leave your bike for just a few minutes.

 With thanks to Transport for London.