An increase in bicycle thefts in a market town have resulted in police using "covert" operations to find the culprits.

In Fareham, officers have made the theft of bicycles a priority after a rise in bike thefts around the station and town centre.

They have been conducting both "covert and overt" operations to catch suspects in these hotspots and gather evidence for further action.

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A picture posted showed a plain clothed officer sat on seating outside.

A spokesperson said: "We are aware that there has been an increase in the theft of pedal cycles in the Fareham area, particularly around the town centre and the train station.

"Today, we have been conducting both covert and overt operations to tackle this.

"We’d like to remind everyone to stay one step ahead by using a good quality D-lock and getting your bike security tagged."