BEWARE the bike thiefs!

That is the message from Bolton police chiefs, as Christmas approaches and thousands of new bicycles are set to take to Bolton's streets.

Scores of cycles -- either stolen or lost -- still remain unclaimed at Bolton Central police station's property store and police chiefs are keen the number does not increase.

Now they are urging the town's cyclists to ensure their bikes are securely chained up and have been stamped with special identification numbers, to help officers trace their correct owner.

Chief Insp Alan Green said: "Get your bike stamped, get a proper lock and don't let it out of your sight. Chgildren often go into a shop, leaving their cycle unsecured outside but that is just a golden opportunity for any thief."

The warning comes as the Christmas period, traditionally one of the worst times for bike thefts, approaches.