One-day event focused on cycle safety

Officers from the Harlow Community Policing Team joined forces with Essex County Council’s road safety team for a cycle safety event earlier this month.

The event, which took place on 5 August, saw PCSO Laura Cartwright, PC Paul Harrison (both pictured) and the Bikeability team from Essex County Council raise awareness about bike safety and distribute free cycle safety packs to help people protect their bikes against theft.

The packs, paid for with money seized from criminals under the Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA), contained a range of cycle safety accessories including a bike chain, seat cover, security covers and ultra violet pen.

The event followed an incident in February that left an 83-year-old woman with two broken ankles after being struck by a bicycle in Harlow town centre.

PCSO Cartwright, who arranged the event, said:

“Whether it’s for work, school or pleasure, cycling has many benefits. Over the last six months we have seen a steady increase in people using bicycles to get out and about. Unfortunately this has also provided increased opportunities for thieves to target cyclists.

“Many bikes have had their bike chains cut, some have been stolen after being left unattended, others have been taken from gardens and more serious crimes have occurred involving the bicycle being taken from the owner by force.

“Essex Police is committed to reducing bike theft but we can only do so with your help and vigilance. I urge cyclists to make sure their bikes are locked and ensure they are security marked to reduce the chances of it being stolen.”

15 August 2017