Police say they have disrupted a network of prolific cycle thieves.

Officers searched a house in Warbler Walk, Greater Leys, and another in Williamson Way, Rose Hill, both in Oxford, recovering 19 stolen bikes. One bike, which was stolen last week, has already been returned to its owner.

But police want to trace the owners of three other "high value" cycles. Last month the Oxford Mail reported how gangs get crack and heroin addicts to steal the bikes for £5 a time and then sell them in London, although police were unable to say whether this action was linked.

More than 2,000 bikes are stolen in Oxford every year and police have launched a crackdown to trace crime rings after a surge in thefts. Pc Felicity Parker said: "We believe we have disrupted a network of prolific cycle thieves in the city."

Anyone who thinks they may own one of the bikes can call Pc Parker on 08458 505505 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

Two men, one aged 39 and the other 21, were arrested on suspicion of handling stolen goods and were bailed.