Official figures show a dramatic reduction in the number of bikes stolen in the Netherlands last year. The Dutch are well-known as a nation of cyclists and bike theft causes much irritation.

Just over half a million bicycles were taken in 2009 compared to about three-quarters of a million in 2006. This is down to measures taken by the government, the cycle sector and the police. New bikes are now routinely fitted with hidden chips which can be used to identify their owners.

Quality certification for cycle-racks and locks has also helped, as has the construction of more racks, some of them patrolled, in cities and at stations. The creation of an official register of stolen bicycles has made their recovery easier.

© Radio Netherlands Worldwide