AMAZON has been forced to cancel shifts for potentially hundreds of workers at its Darlington site after Extinction Rebellion protesters blocked access to HGV vehicles.

Workers due to arrive for their "mid-shift" have been told that their shifts have been cancelled as a result of the protests, according to an internal memo.

HGV drivers have been seen pilling out outside Amazon warehouses across the UK - including Gateshead and Darlington - as environmental activists stage their protests.

Follow live updates: Extinction Rebellion block Amazon Darlington and Gateshead

Earlier today, several Amazon-branded delivery trucks were seen outside the site in Darlington as a group of protesters blocked logistics entrances.

The internal memo released to staff this afternoon by warehouse bosses said that staff would be paid in full, despite the cancellation of their shift.

It said: "Dear Associate, as you may be aware we currently have protester's outside of our site. As a result, the decision has been made to cancel today's Mid-shift.

Read more: PICTURES: Inside Amazon's warehouse in Durham on Black Friday

"You will be paid in full for today's scheduled shift, and your A-Z app will be updated to reflect this. Any exceptions will be communicated seperately.

"Please by assured that your safety is our top priority and we are currently reviewing the measures we have in place to make sure you feel secure as you start your scheduled shift.

"If anything changes during the day, we will keep you updated. If you have any questions or concerns, please speak to your manager or HR."

It is not known if the same approach has been taken at its other sites including Amazon in Gateshead.

Amazon has been approached for comment.

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