Cyclists in an area of Newcastle are making their mark with the help of Northumbria Police.

A free bike marking event in the East End of Newcastle will give residents a chance to protect their bikes so thieves don’t take them for a ride.

The event is taking place at the East End Pool, Hadrian Square, Byker, on Thursday July 29 between 2pm and 4pm.

The bikes will be marked with a specialist chemical etching system, which records property with a unique code and makes it easier to trace if it’s stolen, and deters thieves from stealing it in the first place.

As well as the marking officers will be on hand to give out advice on bike maintenance and other security methods.

Community Support Officer Nicola Turnbull, of the Byker and Walker Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “Having your bike marked is a good preventative tool as it makes the bike less attractive to thieves.

“Security marking your bike also means it is easier to return it to its rightful owner if the bike is stolen and then recovered. I’d urge as many people as possible to come along to this event to get the free marking and speak to your local officers about crime prevention advice.”

Cyclists should also register their bike’s frame number with the National Property register at http://www.immobilise.com