POLICE are stepping up patrols in Weymouth and Portland as the borough experiences a spike in motorcycle thefts and thefts from cars. 

A series of thefts have taken place across the borough in the past month with more than 20 incidents reported in the area since the start of April. 

Dorset Police initially appealed for witnesses last month after three motorbikes were stolen in Weymouth and a further three on Portland within a three week period. 

Two of the bikes stolen on Portland were recovered but were damaged beyond repair. 

Police Constable Darren Tharme of Weymouth and Portland police, said: “I would urge anyone who sees people behaving suspiciously around motorcycles or has any information about stolen motorbikes to please contact us.

“I would also like to advise motorcycle owners to ensure their vehicles are secured at all times with a suitable wheel lock when unattended and, if possible, parked in a garage or secure area overnight. Please remove or hide valuables from view and ensure your vehicle is secure.”

The cars which are being targeted have either been unlocked or have had high value items left on display.

Now, Dorset Police has said officers will be stepping up overnight patrols during the half term break this week.

Weymouth and Portland councillor Francis Drake, who is the spokesman for community safety, said: “It’s a worrying time and these are worrying figures. I don’t want to worry people, but as we move into the holiday season, people should be aware of these crimes.

“People cannot be too careful with what they leave out and need to be on their guard. This is especially important when people are heading to the beach, people seem to forget and leave stuff out rather than put it in the boot. 

“The police need our help. We don’t always have enough officers on the beat and people need to be reminded that just because they’re on holiday, the police and thieves are not.”

Dorset Police and town councillors are now urging residents with any information to come forward. 

Cllr Sandy West said: “It just seems a bit strange as they are coming back burnt out and it’s getting quite serious now. It is not just a monetary thing, a lot of the time people save up for these bikes, especially young people, and they are their pride and joy.

“It is a sad crime, it is criminal damage and it is theft. If anybody does know anything, I urge them to come forward. Even if you see something and you aren’t sure, it’s always worth ringing 101.”

For more crime prevention advice visit www.dorset.police.uk/help-advice-crime-prevention.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk, via email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55170063942. Alternatively contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or via www.crimestoppers-uk.org.