[bbfan1991]

A police force has filmed one of its officers 'stealing' bikes on a busy street while dressed as a skeleton.

The video, which Avon and Somerset Police have uploaded to YouTube, aims to show how 'easy it is' for thieves to steal bikes in broad daylight.

Youtube video

The footage shows PCSO Neil Spring repeatedly chain up a bike in Bristol before using bolt croppers and brute force to 'steal' it in front of passersby.

In one attempt he even dons an eye catching costume, but despite attracting many peoples' attention, no-one reports or even questions him.

Inspector Keith Rundle said: "We're not suggesting that anyone become a 'have-a-go hero' but we're asking people to call 999 and report bike theft as soon as they see it happening, so we can catch the bike thieves in the act.

"We are constantly on the lookout for bike thieves but we also need the community to be vigilant and to call us if they see a crime happening.

"The faster you let us know the more likely we are to be able to catch the thief."

As well as encouraging the public to report crimes like this, Avon and Somerset Police hope the video will prompt cyclists to be more careful when locking up their bikes.

The stunt was conducted as part of Operation Relentless which is being run by the force this autumn.