Thursday August 6th 2026
Calum Kerr meeting with tourism businesses, accommodation providers, cycling stakeholders and Police Scotland to discuss how bike security can be strengthened across the Tweed Valley
Written by Midlothian View Reporter, Liam Eunson
Calum Kerr MSP has hosted a meeting of tourism businesses, accommodation providers, cycling stakeholders and Police Scotland to discuss how bike security can be strengthened across the Tweed Valley as the area’s cycling economy continues to boom.
The meeting, held at Glentress, focused on practical measures to help protect bikes, support local businesses and maintain the Tweed Valley’s reputation as one of Scotland’s premier cycling destinations.
With world class facilities attracting thousands of visitors to the area each year, discussion focused on promoting good security practices, improving access to secure bike storage and sharing advice on crime prevention.
Mr Kerr, SNP MSP for Midlothian South, Tweeddale and Lauderdale said:
“The Tweed Valley has earned an outstanding reputation as a destination for cycling and outdoor recreation, attracting visitors from across the world, the vast majority of whom will not experience anything but a great time. Unfortunately with many bikes now worth more than some cars and much more easily moved, it is inevitable that they will attract a small number of not just opportunists but organised criminals who know what they are looking for. That is why prevention matters.
“It’s important that everyone involved takes a preventative approach by properly securing bikes, sharing information and generally making life difficult for would be thieves. This will send a clear message that the Tweed Valley is not an easy target.
“We have a great community here and I was delighted with the strong show from businesses, accommodation providers, local representatives and Police Scotland to share ideas and advice.
“Cycling contributes enormously to the local economy, supporting jobs and businesses throughout the area. By continuing to focus on crime prevention we can help protect that success and ensure visitors continue to enjoy the world class offering we have here.”
Inspector Rory Caverhill of Police Scotland said:
“Bikes are not just an important recreational item, they are a vital mode of transportation or exercise and to have them lost or stolen can be devastating.
“Whether you’ve just bought a new bike or have been cycling for years, we encourage you to register your bike on the national BikeRegister database. If it is stolen then this can help us with our enquiries.
“Prevention is vital and there are number of things bike owners can do including taking photos, making a note of serial numbers and unique markings, and consider using a DNA Marking kit such as SelectaDNA.
“Bike owners should always use a secure bike lock, and if leaving it in a public place choose a well-lit, safe space.
“Police Scotland regularly offers free bike marking events and there was one at Glentress in July. These events are publicised on our social media channels and locally.
“We continue to work with partners to make sure owning and using a bike in the Tweed Valley area is enjoyable and safe.”
Lindsay Quayle of Go Tweed Valley said:
“Mountain biking and cycling in general play a vital role in the Tweed Valley economy and a great number of local businesses rely on it. It’s vital that we protect and enhance the area’s fantastic reputation as a cycling destination.
“Ensuring everyone is aware of the basic steps they can take to ensure bikes are not an easy target for criminals is a simple step that will have a big effect.
“Secure storage is now an expected part of the visitor offer but it’s important for us to all work together to make visitors fully aware of the secure facilities that are available and to encourage their use.”
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