POLICE are looking to clamp down on motorbike thefts in Tottington after a recent spate of incidents.

Officers believe Tottington is being specifically targeted by criminals and is urging residents to be vigilant.

Following a number of thefts in the area between August 19 and September 23, officers are now analysing the crimes.

Neighbourhood Beat Officer Chris Boardman, who covers Tottington, Walshaw and Affetside, is urging motorbike owners to improve the security of their bikes.

He said: “The amount of crimes involving motorbikes is something over the last month that we have picked up on.

“The main thing we’re trying to do is raise awareness by letting members of the public know about these thefts and we are asking residents to be mindful with security.

"There has been an unusual amount of motorbike thefts. We’re now investigating and there is no doubt the area is being targeted.”

Councillor Iain Gartside, who represents Tottington, said: "We have regular pact meetings with local residents, police officers, police community support officers and councillors.

"At the last one, these bike thefts were brought up and I'm glad to hear that the police are taking it seriously.

"We need to make sure word gets around and people are more vigilant.

"It's very concerning but I am pleased that Chris is making an effort to tackle it."

Bury North GMP’s official twitter account also tweeted a warning that ‘insecure cars’ were being targeted in the Tottington area and urged owners to "double check" their vehicles are locked.

Officers are asking any witnesses to any vehicle-related crime to call 101.