POLICE have issued a warning for local residents to be aware an increase in bicycle thefts in the Ilkley area.

It comes after a local resident has spoken of his relief after his 'unique' tandem bicycle, which had been stolen in Ben Rhydding, was recovered.

The electric tandem bike was stolen from an outbuilding in Ben Rhydding between 10.30am and 4.30pm on Monday, July 22.

A lock had been bypassed on the heavy tandem, which belonged to a person who relied upon it for recreational needs.

The resident who wanted to remain anonymous said: "Tandems are not often seen and this is a fairly unique item.

"We have recovered it now after it was spotted in the rear garden of a house. There were a few scratches on it but otherwise it was ok.

"We thought that was it after it was stolen but fortunately social media came through for us."

The theft comes as police have warned residents to be aware of an increasing number of bike thefts in the area.

A spokesperson for West Yorkshire Police said: "Unfortunately in the last week there has been an increase in the number of pedal cycles being stolen in the Ilkley area.

"Please make sure they are locked at all times and consider removing the battery from your electric cycle."