Bike theft statistics collated across St Albans, Harpenden, and London Colney show that about 130 bicycles were stolen during 2016.

St Albans district council’s cycling task group, which reviewed the figures at a recent meeting, revealed that bikes left in St Peters ward – but not including St Albans City Station - were the most targeted by thieves.

Twenty-two were stolen from St Peters between January 1 and December 31 2016, 17 per cent of the total number pinched over that period.

Clarence ward had 14 bicycles stolen last year.

By contrast, there were apparently no bikes reported stolen throughout the whole of 2016 in St Stephens ward, which encompasses Chiswell Green and Bricket Common.

June was the busiest month for bike thefts, with 17 stolen that month, closely followed by October, when 15 were taken.

District councillor Anthony Rowlands, who chaired the cycling group, said: “The police are taking steps to try and stop thefts, but they said a strong lock is the most effective way. I know that can be £50 and outside the pocket of a some cyclists.”

A spokeswoman for Herts Police, which provided the statistics, said officers took all possible steps to reunite people with their bikes.

She said: “Alongside investigative opportunities, officers from the Safer Neighbourhood Teams also run proactive events, particularly in the summer months, to security mark bikes.

“This means if they are stolen and recovered, it’s easier for police to trace victims and return the property.”

People should also ensure their bikes are securely locked, to reduce the risk of them being a target for thieves, she said.

Any suspicious activity should be reported to the police on 101.