Police release images after bike thefts at Haywards Heath and Three Bridges

British Transport Police (BTP) officers are appealing for information after a series of thefts at Haywards Heath and Three Bridges stations.

Investigators have released CCTV images of two people they would like to speak to in connection with the thefts, which took place between 19 December 2013 and 30 January 2014.

PC Billy Burstow, the investigating officer, said: “We have noticed a number of incidents at Haywards Heath and Three Bridges stations which, after viewing CCTV footage, we believe may all be linked.”

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On Thursday, 19 December, the victim left her bike at Haywards Heath station around 6.45am.

When she returned later on in the month, she discovered her bike had been taken. Officers believe it was taken on Monday, 30 December.

At 5.40am on Monday, 23 December, a man left his Tommy Scooter at Haywards Heath station.

When he returned at 10am on Tuesday, 24 December, he discovered it had been taken.

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After a search in the local area, it was located two days later close to the fire station.

The owner was reunited with the scooter.

On Tuesday, 28 January, the victim, a 23-year-old man, secured his bike in the racks at Three Bridges station, about 5.35pm.

When he returned at 11.25pm, he found the bike and lock had been taken.

On the same day, a saddle had been taken from another person’s bike at the station.

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Two days later, on Thursday, 30 January, a front wheel was removed from a commuter’s bike left locked at Three Bridges station.

Officers have launched an investigation into the thefts and, as a result, patrols have been stepped up along the route and at cycle racks to catch and deter criminal activity.

PC Burstow added: “Cycle theft is a priority for officers in Brighton and we will do all we can to identify those responsible. Thieves should be aware that there is very clear CCTV now at stations and on board trains and we will utilise this wherever possible.

“We also run cycle surgeries at train stations across Sussex, and I would encourage all cyclists in the area to come along and get their bikes security marked. This makes it easier for officers to reunite stolen bikes with their owners.”

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Anyone with information about the thefts, or who recognises the men pictured, is asked to contact British Transport Police on 0800 40 50 40 quoting background reference LSA/B6 of 10/02/2014. Information can also be passed to the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.