An insurance firm has warned that the theft of David Cameron's bike for the second time in ten months may herald the start of a 'Himalayan peak in cycle theft'.
Britain could be set to see a huge rise in bicycle theft, according to a new report from a home insurance provider.
AA Insurance was responding to news that the Conservative leader David Cameron's bike has been stolen for the second time in ten months. Mr Cameron's bike was left chained to railings near his London home but was later taken.
The cycle was stolen in July 2008 from outside a Tesco store near his house but later turned up in a nearby street. AA Insurance warned that this could represent the beginning of a "Himalayan peak" in bike theft - and cyclists should make sure their bikes are covered by their home insurance.
AA Insurance director Simon Douglas said that Mr Cameron had "done the right thing" by reporting the theft to the police.
"Many cycle thefts go unreported, but doing so is essential for any insurance claim," he said. "While we sympathise with his well-publicised plight, hundreds of cyclists fall victim to theft every day."
According to the Home Office's British Crime Survey, June to October is the worst time of the year for bike theft. Additionally, the AA cited figures showing that bike sales are on the increase, meaning many more owners could be at risk.
Mr Douglas added: "This episode reinforces the need to check your insurance to make sure your bike is included. Make sure your bike is adequately covered and adequately secured."
