POLICE have warned motorcycle owners in the Warminster and Westbury areas to make sure they secure their bikes after a series of thefts.

Police said there had been eight thefts of motorcycles over a three-day period earlier this month.

Officers said: "In recent weeks, in the Warminster and Westbury areas, we are seeing an increase in thefts of motorcycles.

"It takes a matter of seconds for a thief to steal a moped, scooter or motorcycle, especially if they are left either unsecured or with inadequate security."

Three thefts took place in Westbury - between November 6 and November 7.

Two Honda 125s and a Yamaha 125 were all stolen and found later.

In Warminster on November 8, a Yamaha 125 was stolen but later found with its panels removed; a RT 125 was stolen and still hasn't been found, and a second Yamaha 125 was stolen and found later dumped in bushes.

On November 9, again in Warminster, a Yamaha R6 stolen and was found ten days later with some damage, and a Honda 125 was taken but later found.

Police issued a series of tips to help owners secure their vehicles based on the lock, chain, cover system to reduce

the risk of becoming a victim.

Remove the keys - thieves are often opportunists and so they will first look for bikes that are quick and easy to steal.

Lock - use a disc lock to help secure the front brake disc, or a grip lock to secure the brake and throttle controls. You could also use a D lock on the front wheel to stop it being wheeled away.

Chain - thieves often steal a bike by breaking the steering lock and wheeling it away. Use a chain lock through the back wheel (the front wheel can be removed). Secure your bike, with the lock taut to an immovable object such as a ground anchor or street furniture. If this isn’t possible, thread the chain through your bike frame and back wheel.

Cover - thieves often ‘shop’ for bike models. Using a cover instantly makes it less attractive to them. A cover also provides another time-consuming obstacle for the thief.

Police added: "Unfortunately, security measures can’t guarantee your bike won’t be stolen but, by using multiple security measures, you can make it harder and less attractive for thieves."