Motorbike and moped thefts are on the up.

Police in Borehamwood and Bushey say they have seen an increase in stolen bikes in recent weeks with a number of arrests being made.

It has led officers to offer advice on how to keep bikes safe. A series of events will be held in the two towns over the next few weeks.

Bushey neighbourhood sergeant Tom Prior said: “Most of the thefts have been in Borehamwood and they have predominately been motorbikes and mopeds left insecure or with limited security.

“The problem has come into Hertsmere from London, where similar thefts have been occurring.

“We want to raise awareness amongst motorbike and moped riders to make sure they properly secure their vehicles, preferably using at least two security devices, for example a chain and disc lock or a chain and handle bar lock.”

Awareness events will be taking place as part of a crime prevention campaign, in partnership with safer neighbourhood teams, the Hertsmere community safety partnership and Herts Motorcycles.

The first event will be held on Saturday May 19 from 12.30pm until 2.30pm in Shenley Road. Further events will be held on Saturdays in Leeming Road on May 26; Manor Way on June 2, Organ Hall Road on June 9, all in Borehamwood, and the old Bushey Golf and Country Club car park in High Street in Bushey on June 16.

Sgt Prior added: “We hope our campaign will make people think twice about properly securing their bike before leaving it unattended, and as a result decrease the number of thefts.

"Please also let us know if you see anyone acting suspiciously around motorbikes or mopeds by calling 999 if you suspect a crime is in progress – or 101 if you are calling retrospectively."