BIKE thefts are still plaguing West Bridgford residents, despite campaigns to raise awareness.
Police said last month that one bicycle was being stolen every day in the town and urged riders to do more to secure their bikes.
But even with these efforts and extra time spent trawling through CCTV footage, thefts are common on the streets.
Neighbourhood Inspector Craig Berry said: "We are working hard to reduce a spate of bike thefts in the West Bridgford area. Being that we have the National Water Sports Centre based in the locale, we do tend to attract a lot of cyclists who are taking part in triathlons, as well as simply coming along to watch the summer sports programme.
"To a thief, more cyclists means more bikes to steal."
On Monday, four bikes were stolen – two from Roko gym, in Wilford Lane, one from Rushcliffe Leisure Centre, in Boundary Road, and one from outside the Environment Agency offices in Scarrington Road.
Police are investigating two bike thefts from the car park at the back of Carluccio's restaurant, in Central Avenue, between 9.30am and 5.30pm on Saturday, May 31.
And an 11-year-old boy was knocked off his bike by teenage thieves on Tuesday, May 27, at Compton Acres shopping centre.
Malcolm Jolley, 67, of West Bridgford, said: "I have heard a lot about people being pushed off bikes, both teens and older people. There is a little bit of a police presence here but it is a big area to cover.
"I have about seven bikes at home and have started locking them all together as if they are all chained as one they are harder to take. It is better to do it than not but it is a pain."
Adam Child, 28, also from the area, said his university sports club, based in West Bridgford, had had four bikes stolen from them this term. He added: "A lot of students become the victim of this and it is really common. It is difficult for the police to do anything as once someone steals a bike they can make a quick getaway and if it is at a weekend it is probably pretty low priority.
"I think there needs to be more ways to track your bike after it has been stolen.
"It would put people's mind at ease and it is just logistical as it is not easy for police to chase after a cyclist in a car, even if they get there straight away."
Ed Clarke, manager of Cycle Garage on Exchange Road, said: "The problem isn't necessarily the police but people using cheap licks, People come in and they don't want something too heavy but heavy means secure. A lightweight lock is a thief's best friend and in West Bridgford it is easy pickings."
Insp Berry added: "We are working closely with the local authority and local gyms and hope to look at alternative storage options, such as lockers.''
