Extra armed police and sniffer dogs will patrol a North East airport from Thursday in the wake of worldwide terrorist threats.

Police say security is being significantly stepped up at Teesside International Airport over the Christmas period.

Officers with automatic weapons will be more visible on the airport concourse and specially-trained dogs to sniff out explosives will be put on aircraft.

A police spokesman said the move was in line with government advice to ports and airports.

Extra security will be in force over Christmas

Durham Police said the high-visibility measures were not in response to a specific threat.

A spokesman said: "Ports and airports are very much our first line of defence and armed police offer a clear and visible deterrent to anyone intent on committing any criminal act.

"At the same time, we will be offering extra reassurance to the travelling public."

Both Durham and Cleveland police forces are involved in the special measures with security also being increased at the port of Tees.

The operation at the airport will run throughout December and into the New Year.

Uniformed officers, wearing body armour and carrying rifles and pistols, will patrol the arrival and departure areas.

Dogs trained to identify explosives and trace residues will check baggage handling areas, luggage carousels and will be taken on board inbound flights immediately after passengers have left the aircraft.

Similar measures are likely to be introduced at neighbouring Newcastle Airport, although Northumbria Police would not reveal details.