EXPENSIVE bike saddles are being targeted by thieves in Oxford, a shop owner warned last night.

Kevin Moreland, who runs Walton Street Cycles, in Jericho, has sold on average one Brooks saddle every week in the past six months as a replacement for ones which have been stolen.

The high-end saddles can cost up to £240. Owners protect them with locks, but these can be easily removed, he warned.

Mr Moreland said: “Bike part theft, in particular that of Brooks saddles, has increased in Jericho since September last year.

“Whenever you get a new bike you should take a photo of it and make a note of the frame number.

“If you can get your bike postcoded it’s also a good idea; the police will do it for free.

“Always keep your frame and your wheels locked up, and lock your saddle and keep it covered with a plastic bag, or, ideally, remove the saddle and take it inside with you.”

James Chivers, who works in the store’s workshop, added: “We have definitely noticed an increase. Some people are replacing their stolen Brooks saddles with cheaper ones because they are very expensive.”

Police data on thefts is not available as part thefts are classed as general bike thefts.

Jericho cyclist Ann Butler has had two of her Brooks saddles stolen in the past 12 months.

She said: “On both occasions they were stolen from my bike overnight when it was in my front garden. They are obviously being sold on.

“I have been victim to several other thefts including two bikes, my bike basket and Dynamo bike lights. I have reported all of these thefts but to no avail. Several of my neighbours have also had their Brooks saddles stolen.”

Bike theft is one of Oxford’s most prevalent crimes.

Most recent data, from April 2009 to March last year, shows a record 2,137 bikes were stolen, 352 more than the previous 12 months.

James Styring, chairman of the Oxford cycling campaign group Cyclox, said he had noticed an increase. He said: “Victims should keep an eye out on eBay and visit the suspected person with the police if possible.”

Thames Valley Police spokesman Chris Kearney said “Thames Valley Police would always urge anyone who has been a victim of crime to report the matter.”