Oxfordshire residents making journeys to and from the capital have been issued with a strong caution.

Those who commute frequently between Oxford and London frequently use Great Western Railway services that terminate at Paddington.

This particular service tends to be both the quickest and most cost-effective option available, although it calls at Reading.

Travellers using GWR services are now being alerted to the threat of frequent pickpocketing and bag thefts at Reading.

The recorded message, broadcast repeatedly over the train’s public address system, advises those remaining on board past Reading to keep their belongings secure while on the train.

A GWR representative explained that this message forms part of their routine automated announcements and plays throughout the network, particularly at major hubs.

The company stressed that this does not stem from any particular rise in criminal activity at Reading.

Reading station has frequently been highlighted as among the worst in Britain for pickpocketing incidents.

Data compiled by luggage storage network Bounce.com indicated that Reading ranked fourth nationally for pickpocketing offences, with Birmingham, Leeds and Manchester positioned higher on the list.

Great Western Railway also recorded the third highest volume of baggage thefts of any UK rail operator, according to Money Supermarket.

Figures showed that in 2025 almost 200 bags were taken on Great Western Railway services and at their stations.

Many of these routes feature luggage compartments positioned away from passenger seating, which helps maintain clear aisles for large suitcases but also makes bags particularly susceptible to theft.

Money Supermarket observed that rail operators experiencing the highest luggage theft figures typically operate long-distance services frequented by inter-regional passengers and holidaymakers.