CYCLISTS are being warned to beware of thieves and to take more stringent security measures after seven expensive road bikes were stolen over the weekend in Martock.

Five bikes, including a Cervelo worth £5,000 and a Pinarello worth £4,000, were taken from an outbuilding in East Street overnight on Saturday and Sunday (October 19 and 20).

A chain saw, a jet washer and various power and electrical tools were also stolen.

That night, another two sheds were broken into at another property in East Street. A specialized bike and power and garden tools were taken.

Also in East Street that night, a detached garden studio was burgled and valuable model train sets and toys were stolen.

Another Pinarello bike worth more £1,000 was stolen from a garage at a house in Old Market during Friday and Saturday night.

Police believe the burglaries are linked and that the thieves knew what they were looking for.

They are appealing for anyone who heard or saw anything suspicious overnight to contact them with information on 101.

Neighbourhood Sgt Rob Jameson said:  “These thieves must have used a lorry or a van, so we are particularly keen to hear from anyone who may have seen a vehicle like that in the area.

"They have stolen expensive tools as well as the valuable, distinctive and specialist road bikes, and we would like to hear from anyone who may be offered them for sale at a knock-down price.”

Another three bikes were stolen from a shed in Flaxfield Drive, Crewkerne overnight on Saturday. They were a Cannondale and two Carrera bikes. Two toy scooters and a selection tools were also taken.

Horse tack and tools were stolen from  a shed in Langmead Place, Crewkerne that night, and there was an attempted burglary from two sheds in Memorial Avenue, Crewkerne on Sunday night (October 20).

The burglaries re not believed to be connected with those in Martock.

Police are advising all homeowners to make sure their property is locked and secured.

Bike security advice is available on the police website www.avonandsomerset.police.uk under the Crime Prevention heading.

Simple steps include using a good quality lock, registering your bike for free by visiting the national property database www.immobilise.com, insuring your bike and using electronic tagging or property marking products.

Always inform the police immediately if your bike is stolen.