ERITH bicycle owners can give would-be thieves pause for thought this month and next.

Erith Riverside Shopping Centre is teaming up with the MET on February 22 and March 15 between 11am and 4pm for two free bike security marking events.

The stand will be located opposite Wilkinson’s outside Mambochino’s offering security advice to shoppers as well as free marking and registration on to the BikeRegister’s online database.

By registering bikes, police and retailers are able to identify and verify the legitimate owner of machines that have been lost, stolen or are being resold.

Security marking bikes also deters potential thieves as the vehicle is then easily traceable if it is stolen and far more likely to be returned to its rightful owner.

Centre manager Barry Owen said: "We are dedicated to making the local community a safer environment and are delighted to be working alongside the Metropolitan Police."