Bicycles the most commonly stolen possession, says insurer Direct Line

Insurance company Direct Line says that bicycles are the item most commonly stolen by burglars in the UK – ahead of mobile phones, power tools and laptop and tablet computers.

One in six theft claims the insurer handles, 17 per cent, involves a bicycle, with mobile phones second at 11 per cent.

The top ten list is rounded off by televisions, which make up just 3 per cent of claims.

– Cycle-specific insurance — Your questions answered

Kate Lomas, the company’s head of home insurance, said: "With the nights drawing in, it is perhaps unsurprising that thefts increase, as there are more opportunities for burglars to strike without being seen.”

She advised people to ensure items that cannot be kept in the house be properly secured to deter would-be thieves.

"Items such as bicycles, gardening tools and golf equipment are amongst the most sought-after items, so if items must be stowed away outside the home, homeowners should make sure they are safe and secure."

Top 10 items featured in Direct Line home insurance claims

1. Bicycles
2. Mobile phones
3. Power tools
4. Laptops
5. Tablet computers
6. Cameras
7. Golf equipment
8. Gardening tools
9. Audio equipment
10. TVs