The summer months may mean an increase in bike thefts according to, the insurance provider, AA Insurance.

The recession coupled with the increased number of bicycles across the country, will mean that a record amount of two wheeled thefts, could be seen over the next few months. Over 500,000 bicycles are stolen annually in the UK and only five per cent of these are returned to their owners.

Often the summer months signal an increase anyway, added to the brew this time is the all consuming credit crunch. In addition to this, recent statistics show that there has been an increase in bike sales as folks struggle to maintain their cars, meaning that there are more bikes around to be stolen.

Simon Douglas, the director of AA Insurance, said: "We could see a Himalayan peak in cycle theft this summer as the recession makes the bike an ever more sought-after item."

Cameron's case

This news comes on the back of David Cameron's second bike theft in just over half a year, statistics proving there was inevitability to it.

Mr Douglas continued, "Many cycle thefts go unreported, but doing so is essential for any insurance claim," he said.

"While we sympathise with his well-publicised plight, hundreds of cyclists fall victim to theft every day. This episode reinforces the need to check your insurance to make sure your bike is included. Make sure your bike is adequately covered and adequately secured."

A light at the end of the tunnel

But there may be light at the end of the tunnel in the battle against the criminals. Technology being honed at Leeds University, is developing a way of combating crime.

PhD student Dima Damen, from the University's Faculty of Engineering, has created a computer system that highlights individuals parking their bicycles and then automatically warns security staff if it appears that someone other than the owner retrieves the vehicle.

Although not rocket science, it does show that CCTV can be used for good and not just evil.

Damen said: "It's difficult to monitor CCTV cameras, as operators normally have a large number of screens to watch. This often results in bicycle thefts being missed, even if they are happening right in front of the camera. Damen added: "Without a system like this, the benefit of CCTV cameras is diminished by the difficulties of manual monitoring. It's a simple solution to an extremely widespread problem."

Until this motion comes into force however the government have issued well timed advice to bike riders for the summer.

Amongst other things Britons have been advised that bike thefts happen around the home so precautions need to be taken to protect their prized possessions, when they are kept at the home. Britons have been told to keep their bike in a secure place under lock and key, to keep out of public view. Also installing the bike onto an immovable object can be a beneficial safety measure.