BOSSES at Amazon Durham have been forced to introduce additional security patrols after a number of motorbikes were allegedly stolen from its car park.

In an internal memo to workers at the Fulfilment Centre, the retailer said it was taking the matter "very seriously" and working with Durham Police.

Workers at the site, which is located at the Integra 61 industrial estate in Bowburn, near Durham, were told additional measures had been added to prevent further thefts.

The Northern Echo understands that a number of workers reported their motorbike had been stolen over the past month while parked on the site's official car park.

In an internal message to staff, the retailer said: "Unfortunately you may have heard of some recent instances where theft has taken place in our car park.

"Please be advised that Amazon are taking the matter very seriously and are working as a matter of urgency with the local police constabulary.

"We are currently looking at installing addition security measures and have already increased security in the car park in the meantime.

"If you do choose to bring a motorbike to work please ensure you use the anchor points available in the motorbike parking area, this area is covered by CCTV.

"If you do see any suspicious activity in the car park please notify a member of security immediately."

In response, a spokesperson for Amazon confirmed it was assisting police with investigations into the reported thefts.

They said: “We are helping the police with their investigations and have introduced additional security patrols in the car park”.   

A spokesperson for Durham Police confirmed it had received reports of four motorbike thefts and that one had been recovered from an address in Blackhall, near Peterlee.

They said: “Officers received reports of four motorbike thefts at Amazon, in Durham, over the last month.

“The company is working well with officers to implement security advice offered.

“One bike has since been recovered from an address in Blackhall and enquiries are ongoing.”