East Midlands is the top UK region for bike thefts

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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

  1. East Midlands
  2. West Midlands
  3. London
  4. Wales
  5. Scotland
  6. South East
  7. Yorkshire and Humber
  8. South West
  9. North West
  10. 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 

  1. Hallway
  2. Bedroom
  3. Utility room
  4. Living room
  5. 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.”