POLICE in Dorchester have issued a warning to residents after the theft of several bicycles in the area.

A number of bikes have been stolen from villages and campsites around the town as well as in Dorchester itself.

Many of the bikes have been unlocked and left in gardens or outside houses.

A spokesman for Dorchester Police said: “It only takes a minute for an opportunist to take them so please ensure you lock it up, no matter where you are and if possible use something solid, ideally using a D lock.

“It is also a good idea to security mark your bike and keep all the details, such as make and model, and a picture in a safe place.”

Anyone who would like security advice on how to keep their bike safe can contact the Safer Neighbourhood team on 101.