POLICE are warning riders in Melksham to lock up their vehicles after a spate of moped thefts in the town.

Four scooters have been stolen in the last two weeks, and all have later been found dumped in rivers and on waste ground.

Acting inspector Mike White, of Melksham police, believes a gang of youths could be responsible.

He said: "They seem to be riding them around and then dumping them. There have been a number of thefts over the last three to four months but we thought we had managed to nip it in the bud.

"If any members of the public sees youths riding around on waste ground they should give us a ring.

"Riders have got to make their mopeds more secure by chaining them to a wall or by leaving them in a garage."

Scooters have been stolen from Kenilworth Gardens, Elliot Place, Longfield Road and West End.

Anyone with information can phone Melksham police on (01225) 703444.