A PRIVATE security firm his invested in a fleet of motorised bicycles worth £3,000 in an effort to help in the fight against would-be Christmas burglars.

The bikes, which can reach speeds of up to 40mph, will be used by staff from Sparta Security to patrol the streets of Darlington, both during daylight hours and at night.

Sparta earned national media coverage in 2009, when it launched its Street Safe patrols, in which officers respond to call-outs from concerned residents.

The company faced accusations of vigilantism but now has more than 40 staff members, as well as an ever-increasing list of clients.

The bicycles are operated by a petrol motor and Sparta managing director, former boxer ‘Fearless’ Francis Jones, said they are a discreet tool in his battle with criminals.

Mr Jones said: “These bicycles are quick, sharp and silent and with crime nationally increasing over Christmas they have been introduced to help catch intruders, opportunists who will try and take advantage of other people’s belongings.

“The message to burglars is clear: if you see a Sparta sign on a house hold then please be aware we can turn up at any time of day or night.

“I am not saying it is 100 per cent burglar proof, what is?

“But with our thermal imaging equipment, our security dog team, night vision etc, Sparta is at least trying to make Darlington a safer place to live.”

The vehicles are the creation of Will Gilligan, owner of Darlington business Will's Whizzers, which makes motorised bicycles out of normal pedal bikes.

He said: “Francis asked me if I could develop a silent, discreet motor that can be fitted onto everyday bicycles and this is something I specialise in.

“Sparta are trying these out over the festive period, checking businesses and households with the hope of preventing burglaries while clients are away from their property or asleep.”

Mr Jones is also planning to relaunch his boxing career in the new year and will travel to the United States after Christmas to begin an intensive period of training.