A 50-year-old man who stole 17 bicycles from Chelmsford station has been sentenced to a nine-month custodial sentence.

Matthew McGrory, of no fixed abode, pleaded guilty to 17 charges of cycle theft at Chelmsford Magistrates court on Thursday January 21.

The offences took place between December 3 and December 12 with a total of 17 bicycles reported stolen, at an estimated total value of more than £6,700.

Senior investigation officer Sergeant Barry Sharp, said: “Bicycle theft will never be tolerated and this sentence sends a clear message that BTP will take robust action against perpetrators.

“This prosecution was only possible thanks to all the victims coming forward and reporting the theft.

"Because of this, we continue to encourage victims and witnesses of such offences to report crimes to BTP by calling 0800 40 50 40 or by sending a text to 61016.”