Police are holding a free bike marking event in Millom to help deter cycle theft and make stolen bikes easier to identify.
The event will take place on Sunday, May 10th, from 11am to 1pm at Tesco’s main car park in Millom. PCSO Claire from the Neighbourhood Policing Team will be hosting the session, which is free to attend and open to cyclists of all ages.
The drop in event has been organised following a reported bike theft in the area. It aims to give local people a simple way to protect their bikes and improve the chances of recovery if they are stolen.
What Is Bike Marking?
Bike marking involves adding a unique security mark to a bicycle and registering its details.
This can help police identify the rightful owner if a bike is found, recovered, or suspected of being stolen.
The process is usually quick and simple. Riders can bring their bikes along during the event and have them marked for free.
Event Details
The Millom bike marking event will be held at:
- Tesco main car park, Millom
- Sunday, May 10
- 11am to 1pm
- Free to attend
- Suitable for all ages
- No appointment needed
People can drop in at any point during the two-hour session.
Why Bike Marking Matters
Bike theft can be upsetting and costly, especially for people who rely on their bikes for travel, school, work, or leisure.
Marking a bike does not guarantee it will not be stolen, but it can act as a deterrent. It also gives police a better chance of returning a recovered bike to its owner.
BikeRegister, the national cycle database used by many police forces, says registering a bike helps police and retailers identify and verify the lawful owner of bikes that have been stolen or are being resold.
Simple Steps to Help Protect Your Bike
Alongside bike marking, cyclists can reduce the risk of theft by taking a few basic steps:
- Use a strong lock, ideally a D-lock or heavy-duty chain.
- Lock the frame and wheels to a secure stand.
- Avoid leaving bikes in quiet or hidden areas.
- Keep a note of the bike’s frame number.
- Take clear photos of the bike.
- Register the bike on a recognised cycle database.
These steps can make it harder for thieves to steal or sell a bike.
Police Encouraging Residents to Attend
The event gives Millom residents a chance to speak to local police, get crime prevention advice and make their bikes easier to trace.
It is also a useful opportunity for families, commuters and regular cyclists to improve bike security without any cost.
Anyone with concerns about bike theft in the area can also use the event to speak with the Neighbourhood Policing Team.
