Three suspected stolen mopeds were found after a police chase through St Albans in the early hours of yesterday morning (July 13).

Herts Police tried to pull over a van in Page Place, Frogmore, at about 2am. When it did not stop the officers pursued.

The chase snaked all the way to London, on Gaydon Lane, when the driver and passengers tried to run away on foot.

Dog units and police helicopters were used to track three men down - Shane Warner, 26, of Edgars Court, Welwyn Garden City; Alfie Reddy, 18, of no fixed address; and Ashley Race, 24, of Mackenzie Square, Stevenage.

Three motorbikes, which police believe are stolen, were found in the back of the van.

Warner is charged with three counts of motor vehicle theft, taking a vehicle without consent, dangerous driving, failing to stop for police and driving without insurance. He is due to appear at Hatfield Remand Court today (July 14).

Race and Reddy are currently bailed, and have both been charged with three counts of theft from motor vehicle. They are both scheduled to appear at Central and West Herts Magistrates Court on August 11.

St Albans Chief Inspector Shane O’Neill commented on the arrests: “Recently there has been an increase in the number of mopeds being stolen across the county and we are urging motorcyclists to take additional security measures to protect their bikes.

“If possible keep your moped out of sight in a garage or a shed.

“If you are unable to do this please ensure you use good quality bike locks and consider fitting a tracking device, an alarm or immobiliser, and an ignition cut-out switch.”

He also appealed for residents to help the police officers, who are working “tirelessly”, by reporting anything suspicious.

“Ideally please take a note of what the people look like, including their clothing, and any vehicle registration numbers of vehicles such as vans that may be used to transport stolen mopeds.

However, please ensure that you do not put yourself in any danger by doing this and call 999 immediately so officers can respond quickly.”

Anyone with information about a crime should contact the police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.