A prolific thief who targeted bikes at Walton and Surbiton stations is on the run from police.

Daniel Westrop, a 27-year-old labourer from Bromley, failed to appear at Woking Magistrates' Court for sentencing yesterday after pleading guilty to 10 counts of theft of bicycles. He had asked for a further 92 offences to be taken into consideration.

Westrop was originally picked up by British Transport Police (BTP) on April 3 after an in-depth investigation into cycle thefts.

Detective Constable Sarah White said Westrop scoured the railway network for bikes which he then sold on the black market.

"On occasions he would steal two bicycles from the same station in one day. In particular he would target West Byfleet, Walton on Thames, Brookwood and Surbiton railway stations, stealing predominantly gents mountain bikes left locked up to cycle racks by railway commuters.

"He has caused distress and misery to many, many people, who have been left without a mode of transport and out of pocket because of his crimes."

The court has now issued a warrant for Westrop's arrest.

BTP are appealing to any commuters who see him to contact police on 0800 40 50 40.

PC Jerry Isterling said cycle theft was a problem on the railway network, but commuters could take simple measures to ensure they do not fall victim to bike crime.

"It is important for bike owners to ensure they get their bikes marked and registered with www.immobiliser.co.uk, this ensures that if their bike is recovered in the hands of a thief that police can do sufficient checks and also ensure any recovered bikes can be reunited with their rightful owners.

"A good quality lock and ensuring the bike is secured to a cycle rack, which are often covered by CCTV cameras at railway stations, can also ensure that bike owners minimise the risk of having their bikes stolen."