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@dbs
Dear all,
Thought you'd like to hear that after my Cervelo P3 was nicked in July from my house I saw the frame on Gumtree in Isleworth. I had seen the wheels before and tried to meet the guy but he cancelled the day before saying he'd sold them already. I thought the ad looked well dodgy for the frame as well as being in the same area so arranged to meet him at the station.
Called police 101 about 90 mins beforehand requesting support: they said they'd pass it to Hounslow police. Called again 20 mins to go: they said someone was assigned to it and would call me. I texted the guy a bit later and he said he was there and waiting. So I called 101 again and said it was now. Next thing, a police van with all sirens passes me and goes to the station. I assumed it would scare him and that would be the end of it. By the time I got there and parked they had him in cuffs and one copper was holding my frame. Quick check of the serial number against all my paperwork and job done! The police really were fantastic and so helpful. I think the case against the guy for handling stolen goods is watertight. The frame has some damage: I'll have to wait to get it back to check and see if its any use.
The guy told me yesterday he is also selling a Trek Madone:
http://www.gumtree.com/p/for-sale/trek-madone-52/1040906469
Which is clearly also nicked. The police were going to go round his house and take anything bike related they could find specifically including the Trek. If it's yours email me mjncrockerATgmail.com and I'll help or you can contact Hounslow police...
So if your bike gets nicked just keep an eye on Gumtree: I put an auto-alert for Cervelo. Get the evidence and arrange a meeting like this. I was worried it wasn't going to work out but credit where it's due, the police were absolutely awesome.
Matthew