Newtown cyclists offered free security marking this summer

Cyclists in Newtown will have the chance to protect their bikes for free this summer as part of a Wales-wide initiative.

Transport for Wales (TfW), working in partnership with the British Transport Police (BTP), is bringing its bike security marking programme to Hafan yr Afon on Friday, 5 June, between 10am and 2pm.

The event will allow local cyclists to have their bikes security marked and registered on a national database at no cost, helping police identify and return stolen bikes to their rightful owners.

The scheme has already seen more than 560 bikes registered across Wales and the Borders since it launched, with organisers saying it has helped improve recovery rates and raise awareness around cycle security.

As well as marking bikes, the Newtown event will give residents the opportunity to speak directly with TfW representatives about active travel routes and facilities in the area, as well as take part in a survey aimed at improving walking, wheeling and cycling infrastructure.

Matthew Gilbert, TfW’s Head of Active Travel and Placemaking, said: “We want to make it easier for people to choose sustainable, low carbon ways of travelling.

“These bike marking events not only help keep people’s bikes safe, but also give us the chance to promote local routes and facilities and hear directly from communities.

“We encourage everyone to take part in our Active Travel Survey so we can better understand the barriers people face when choosing to walk, wheel or cycle.”

Inspector Alun Derrick from the British Transport Police said the initiative also provides an opportunity to share crime prevention advice with the public.

“It is great to get to work with TfW to offer practical crime prevention advice alongside this extra level of identification for passengers and public,” he said.

“We would encourage anyone with a cycle to come along and get it marked as a precaution.

“Please remember if you see anything suspicious when travelling on the trains or at stations we encourage you to contact us by texting 61016 or calling 0800 40 50 40.”

The programme forms part of a wider effort by TfW to encourage more sustainable travel across Wales by supporting safer cycling and improving local transport networks.

Further events are being held across the region, including in Shrewsbury and Chester, but the Newtown session is the only confirmed date locally.

More information about the scheme and other events is available via Transport for Wales.