East Midlands is the top bike theft hotspot in the UK with over a quarter of bicycles in the region stolen.
Research from Co-op Insurance found that 28% of bicycles in the East Midlands are stolen which is 3% more than second placed West Midlands.
The study also found that 376,000 households in the UK have a bicycle stored in the bedroom.
Top 10 bicycle theft hotspots according to Co-op Insurance
- East Midlands
- West Midlands
- London
- Wales
- Scotland
- South East
- Yorkshire and Humber
- South West
- North West
- North East
Chair of Neighbourhood Watch Jim Maddan OBE said: “Our advice for keeping your bike safe is to use the very best locks you can afford on the bike itself.
“Please make sure that you store it in a safe place, such as a shed, garage or even within your home itself.
“Consider marking it with your postcode or a forensic marking product so if it is stolen, you have a greater chance of getting it back.”
Top five unconventional bike stores in the home according to Co-op Insurance
- Hallway
- Bedroom
- Utility room
- Living room
- Dining room
23% of people have had their bikes stolen from inside their homes in the UK with 29% having been stolen from their garden.
Head of Home Insurance at the Co-op Caroline Hunter said: “Be sure to store your bike safely and keep it as secure as possible whether out and about or at home.
“Taking just a few small steps can make a big difference, in keeping your bike safe from thieves.”