BRITISH Transport Police (BTP) is appealing for information after a bicycle was stolen from Severn Tunnel Junction railway station.

They have also released a CCTV image of a man they would like to speak to in connection with the incident, which took place around 9am on Tuesday, 14 January.

PC Debi Rouse, who is investigating the theft, said: “The victim locked their bike on the station bridge before catching a train to work. They returned to the station at 5pm only to discover the bicycle missing.”

The bike is described as a white Charge Plug racing-type bicycle, which is worth around £500. Enquiries have been ongoing since the theft and now officers are releasing a photograph of a man they believe may have key information about the incident.

“This person got off a train from Bristol at 8.58am and walked over the bridge to the car park,” said PC Rouse.

“We are very keen to trace this man as we believe he may have vital information that could help with our enquiries.

“If you recognise the person pictured, or know their whereabouts, then please get in touch.”

The appeal coincides with today’s day of action for Operation Wiggins, the nationwide initiative to crackdown on cycle theft at train stations across the country. Officers will be on hand to provide crime prevention advice and free bike marking and registration. As part of the operation, posters are placed at bike racks advising cyclists how to correctly and securely lock their cycles.

PC Rouse added: “Sadly, bicycles remain a desirable target for many thieves at train stations. However, BTP is cracking down on this type of crime.

“There are lots of things people can do to lessen their chances of becoming a victim of bike theft, like ensuring their property is adequately marked and secured. If a bike is adequately marked, it makes it much easier to identify and therefore helps reduce the risk of theft.

"BTP officers regularly conduct cycle crime awareness surgeries at stations to offer crime prevention advice. We also undertake plain clothes and high profile operations to catch thieves in the act. Thieves should also be aware that most cycle racks are covered by CCTV so it’s only a matter of time before we track you down.”

Anyone with information should contact British Transport Police on 0800 40 50 40 or text 61016 quoting background reference WCA/B8 of 10/02/2014. Information can also be passed to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.