Eastney cyclist stunned after spotting his bike that was snatched by thieves hours before

A CYCLIST has spoken of his shock and anger at finding his stolen bike chained up in Southsea '“ nearly 24 hours after it was taken from bike racks at his work.
Brendan Hughes with his bike that had been stolenBrendan Hughes with his bike that had been stolen
Brendan Hughes with his bike that had been stolen

Brendan Hughes, who works for Southern Railway, had his £450 bespoke bicycle stolen from Portsmouth Harbour train station while he was working, some time between 2pm and 3.30pm on Wednesday, July 6.

The thief cut through his lock with bolt croppers and was caught in the act of the station’s CCTV.

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But the next day at around 1pm, while Brendan was on the bus to work, he spotted his bike chained up in Palmerston Road, Southsea.

He leaped off the bus and called the police, who went to the scene.

The 40-year-old, from Eastney, said: ‘There’s no way I could leave it.

‘I knew it was my bike. It is so distinctive. It’s got only one brake and there are marks on the back tyre.

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‘What’s worse is that I’m still paying for it on a scheme through work.’

The distinctive silver mountain bike was bought from Portsmouth Cycle Exchange, in Victoria Road Southsea, last year.

It was one of the last ones of its type, making it easy for Brendan to spot.

He said: ‘I was on the bus when I saw it, I couldn’t believe it, so I stopped the bus and jumped off.

‘It’s worth more than a day’s shift at work to me.’

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Hampshire police confirmed they were called to the scene and that the 
incident is now being dealt with by British Transport Police.

The force is warning bike owners to be wary of thieves and issued tips on how to keep cycles safely secured.

Advice includes, buying good bike locks, locking cycles securely in a garage or shed, getting bike frames security-marked and to remove quick-release wheels and bike lights and take them with you.