TWO German tourists who had their motorcycles stolen have thanked the team of detectives who tracked them down in time for their journey home.

The couple called police at about 5.30am on Tuesday after waking up in Newcastle to witness their bikes being stolen from their hotel car park.

The victims were due to catch a ferry at 4pm that afternoon and ride their bikes home, but they were found by a dedicated team of detectives.

Detective Inspector Tam Fowler said: “It has been a memorable trip for the victims and I am glad their experience of policing in Newcastle has been positive.”