'There's no urgency': Police criticised after motorbike stolen in Leighton Buzzard

Adam Tester, 44, contacted the LBO on behalf of his mum, 70, who had a red BMW 1200 stolen outside her apartment on Mill Road on Wednesday (October 14).

And he hit out at the police saying there was ‘no urgency’ in responding to the report of the theft.

But Bedfordshire Police say they are working with the community to address concerns around anti-social behaviour and criminality – and that they are investigating the report of the stolen motorcycle as "part of the crackdown".

The motorbike belongs to Adam's mother's partner – and the couple were in the living room at the time the bike was taken, with no view of the vehicle.

Adam claimed: "Mum dialled 999 and was told to dial a different number. The police have filed it but they haven't followed it up.

"It's a scary thought that someone can just do that – and there's no urgency. That's what will make crime occur more.

"There are also no police in Leighton Buzzard that you can approach."

He claims the family are frustrated and feel that if someone had responded right away, the motorbike could have been recovered.

He added: "We feel let down and it's forcing people to go out and rectify problems on their own."

A Bedfordshire Police spokesman, said: "Officers from Leighton Buzzard Community Policing Team are actively working with local residents and community representatives to address concerns around anti-social behaviour and criminality in the town.

"Targeted patrols are being carried out around the Parson's Close Recreation Ground. In the last week officers have handed out three community protection warnings and three anti-social behaviour letters – with more to follow."

Sergeant Amy Rankin from Leighton Buzzard Community Policing Team said: “We encourage anyone experiencing or witnessing anti-social behaviour to continue reporting incidents to us.

"Every report helps build a clearer picture of the issues and supports neighbourhood officers and partner agencies in taking the most appropriate action.

“If you believe you know the names of people involved, please make contact and let us know.”

The motorbike's registration is: PN40 JZD.

Anyone who has information can report online here or by calling 101 quoting: 40/60600/26. You can also call Crime Stoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.