New Group Tackling Motorcycle Thefts In Somerset

BIKERS Against Theft (Somerset) (BATS) has been set up by two victims of recent attempted motorbike thefts from their homes, to help other bike owners and to lobby for Police to prioritise these crimes.

Following attempted break-ins by men in balaclavas at the home of one motorbike owner near Burnham-on-Sea, the victim shared CCTV footage on several Facebook groups, requesting information on the incidents. As a result, numerous people came forward with stories of similar thefts and attempted burglaries, including a former police officer who is a co-founder of the new BATS group.

Andy Barron, served as a police officer in both Strathclyde Police and Avon & Somerset Constabulary until his retirement in 2021. Andy commented: “I was devastated to be targeted by these thieves at my home in Weston-super-Mare in October. I’ve been a lifelong biker and like many others who own motorcycles, my bike is my pride and joy, and our homes should be a place of safety.

“We have founded this new group to try and spare others from the worry and costs of these thefts and would urge anyone in Somerset affected by bike crime to request to join our new Facebook group: Bikers Against Theft (Somerset). I am pleased to say we have had regular communications and support from senior members of Avon & Somerset Police since writing to them about this prolific and organised crime gang.”

The closed Facebook group is a platform for raising awareness to fellow bikers in Somerset and provides a range of helpful information about security, preventing crime and details of stolen bikes. In addition, members can share details of thefts privately for the group to add to their log.

Founders of the group are meeting the Police to handover all evidence obtained from victims so far. This includes CCTV footage of the perpetrators, vehicle information, and details not previously shared. It is hoped the intelligence can be reviewed and increased resources put into catching those responsible, as well as recovering stolen property.

To raise awareness of the extent of the thefts, the group plans to organise a ‘ride-out’ and a campaign to help their cause. The group’s founders are asking for any businesses within the motorcycling or security industries to get in touch via their Facebook group for sponsorship opportunities.

The Group can be accessed here: Bikers Against Theft (Somerset).

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Image: Andy Barron a co-founder of Bikers Against Theft – Somerset.

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