Hackney has most bike thefts in London again – and they are increasing

Hackney has the highest number of bike thefts in London for the second year running – and the figure is going up.

The latest crime statistics from the Met show in the 12 months leading up to July there were 1,581 bikes stolen in the borough – that’s four a day. That’s up by almost 300 on the previous year’s figure of 1,284 three a day.

Tower Hamlets had the second highest number of stolen rides, at 1,508, followed by Southwark at 1,439.

Hackney Council holds regular “pit-stop” events offering free bike marking and giving advice on how cyclists can ensure their bikes are protected.

The next series of sessions, which run from 4pm to 7pm, begins on October 30 in Pitfield Street and Hoxton Street. After that they will be held at Hackney Town Hall on November 26, Martello Street on December 14, Mare Street Narrow Way on January 11 and Powerscroft Road on March 15.

The town hall is also giving out leaflets with security tips to bike shops for customers. It follows the installation of bike hangars and Sheffield stands across the borough.