cycles after an upsurge in thefts.

Officers have recorded 44 stolen bikes in each of the past two weeks, which is higher than the national weekly average.

In July, the average number of stolen cycles was running at less than half the present rate.

And in September, the highest number of weekly recorded thefts was 35.

Police said the number of bikes stolen was still rising, despite repeated warnings about fitting extra locks and remaining vigilant.

A Police spokesman said: "We keep reminding riders to lock their cycles every time they're left, even outside their own homes.

"The weekly report shows many cycles are stolen from private residences and not just in Hamilton.

"Unfortunately, one myth which prevails is that bikes are only stolen from the city. That's simply not true.

"People also need to remember to U-mark their bikes because that will help them get their bikes back if they are stolen.

"Thieves target different areas and these last figures show most bikes were stolen from Devonshire. It's important to keep bikes secure everywhere.'' Last week, 17 motorcycles, 14 auxiliary cycles and 13 livery cycles were stolen.

Twelve bikes were taken from Devonshire, nine from Southampton, five from Hamilton Parish and four each from Paget, Pembroke and the City of Hamilton.

Two bikes were taken from Warwick, two from St. George's and one each from Smith's and Sandys.

Officers at the Traffic Compound in Prospect will U-mark bikes for free on weekdays between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.

Anyone with information about stolen bikes should call Crimestoppers on 1-800-623-8477.