Dear Editor
Re: your article of 21 July 2023 on ‘Frustration as Bedford cycle shelter closed to new users until August’.
Read: Frustration as Bedford cycle shelter closed to new users until August
Your reader Sharon Allen must not be put off cycling to the town centre due to not being unable to use the cycle shelter. The supposedly secure shelter has not turned out to be as “groundbreaking” as originally stated by the borough with at least two expensive bikes taken from it and one heavily vandalised since its opening.
With the current heatwave and wildfires burning over Europe and elsewhere it is important all residents try and take some actions, however small, to help mitigate the increasing rise of greenhouse gases causing these climatic changes.
Active travel such as walking and cycling for short journeys or as part of a longer journey is one small change that must be encouraged.
Unfortunately a bicycle is a desired item for ‘spur of the moment’ thieves or the professional. It is almost impossible to stop the latter but good locks can deter the former.
When leaving a bicycle unattended it is always advised to lock it to a permanent structure or cycle stand in a well-used and properly lit area where it is visible to passing pedestrians.
Use a good quality lock that matches the value of your bicycle. If necessary use two different types – a D-lock as well as a flexible one.
Thread it through the frame and at least one wheel if using one lock and secure it to the cycle stand, railing or other immovable object and remove and take with you quick release valuables such as lights, pumps and panniers.
Ensure your cycle is easily identifiable. Make a note of model, frame number, colour and any accessories. Also photograph it and have the underside of the frame marked with a post code.
Insure your cycle and if it is stolen report it immediately to the Police. There are also a number of schemes where you can register your bicycle on a website such as ‘Immobilise’..
Peter Blakeman
Cycling Campaign for North Bedfordshire (CCNB)
