Published Feb 26, 2016, 5:57pm|Updated Dec 11, 2019, 1:59pm
It could be a trick (Picture: Sarah King)

If you see duct tape stuck on railings, check what is underneath before you chain your bike there. 

Cyclists have been warned that thieves could be cutting through a piece of the bar, then covering it over with tape so it looks like a solid piece of metal.

That means that if someone chains their bike there, the criminals could just peel off the tape and lift the lock through the gap.

RSCPA appeal for help after dog is strangled to death and dumped Labour councillor Sarah King posted the picture on Twitter yesterday, saying it was taken in Camberwell, south London.

It sparked a furious reaction from other users, unhappy at the devious lengths it seems people will go to to steal bikes.

‘Clever, industrial little thieves,’ one man replied.

How to protect your bike

  • Invest in a high quality lock (probably at least £40)
  • Lock your bike through the frame as well as the wheel.
  • Use two locks if possible.
  • Lock the bike to something that thieves can’t remove – like a lamppost or bike rack.
  • Leave it in a well-lit public place with other bikes if you can.
  • Don’t always leave it in the same place as it could be ‘stolen to order’
  • Keep it indoors if you can at home.
  • If it has to be outside, make sure it’s out of sight.

(Tips from Gwent Police.)