VANCOUVER - Theft of personal items like cellphones is on the rise in Vancouver, and police are asking people to be more vigilant about leaving their belongings unattended.

VPD spokesman Sgt. Randy Fincham says the most common items stolen include wallets, purses, phones and bicycles. He said owners tend leave items unattended in libraries, coffee shops, night clubs, mall food courts and parks.

Bicycle thefts were up by 11 per cent in 2013 and 13 per cent in 2014, compared with the same time the year previous, according to police.

Beginning Wednesday, police say they will be partnering with businesses in the community to remind the public to record their serial numbers and protect their property.

Police will be releasing more information about the campaign at a news conference late Tuesday morning.

ticrawford@vancouversun.com