A SUPERMARKET in Lower Earley has pledged to install CCTV following a spate of bike thefts that included an alleged collision between a thief and a shopper.
Residents have taken to social media sites to complain about a series of alleged incidents in Asda and also at the neighbouring shopping precinct.
On Sunday, it is alleged that a moped was stolen from the site at lunchtime and during the thief’s getaway, they knocked over a man, breaking his collar bone.
A Thames Valley Police spokesperson said: “Police were called to reports of an assault in Chalfont Way, Lower Earley, on Sunday at around 12.40pm following reports that a moped had been in collision with a pedestrian.
“The victim, a 57-year-old man, was taken to RBH with a shoulder injury where he remains. Officers are investigating this incident and anyone with any information is asked to call 101 quoting reference number 43170240151.”
It’s not the only theft in recent weeks: a Carrera Hellcat bike was stolen from Asda on Saturday, July 15 around 11.35am, while another bike was taken around 6pm on Wednesday, August 2 from outside the Marks & Spencer food store in the retail complex opposite.
Resident Nic Collins was so incensed about the thefts that he set up a petition to force Asda to install CCTV by its bike racks.
It has attracted support from a number of Earley residents including local councillor Pauline Jorgensen who shared it on social media saying: “We need Asda to step up and help catch these low life bike thieves.”
Asda said that it has listened to residents concerns and was taking positive action.
An Asda spokesperson said: “We work hard to support the local community and to provide safe and secure facilities for our customers to use.
“As a result of two isolated incidents over the last six months, we are pleased to confirm that we will be installing CCTV and will always support the police in any investigations into theft from our store.”
