'Trap bikes' planted across city

It is hoped the bikes will help trap thieves

Bicycles fitted with tracking devices are being "planted" in Brighton in an effort to reduce the number of bikes being stolen in the city.

The miniature devices allow the "trap bikes" to be trailed and located if they are stolen and increase the chance of an arrest, Sussex Police said.

A spokeswoman said two to three bikes are stolen every day in the city.

"The number of bikes stolen accounts for a large amount of the thefts we see in the city," said Insp Bill Whitehead.

"The aim of the trap bikes is to deter would-be thieves, warning them that they stand a greater chance of being arrested and to reduce the number of bikes being stolen."

Officers are also holding two sessions, on Tuesday at The Level and Thursday at the Palace Pier, where owners can have their bikes' postcode stamped.

They will also be handing out "passports" where owners can record serial numbers and identifying features and keep a photograph of their bikes in case of theft.