A MAN has been arrested after two people were found dead in a house on North Tyneside last night.

A spokesman for Northumbria Police said this morning: "At 9.15pm police received a report of a man running in the road and causing a disturbance at Front Street in Benton. 

"Officers attended and detained the 25-year-old man.

"Further enquiries led them to a house at Front Street shortly afterwards where the bodies of a man and woman were found inside. Both were pronounced dead at the scene."

The 25-year-old was arrested on suspicion of murder and is currently in custody helping with enquiries.

DCI Paul Young, who is leading the investigation, said: "Enquiries are in the very early stages, but we believe the incident happened inside the house and that those involved are known to each other.

"An extensive investigation is being carried out and I'd like to reassure people that a man has been arrested in connection with our enquiries and he is currently in custody.

"I'd appeal for anyone who saw or heard anything in Front Street on Tuesday night, at about 9.15pm, to get in touch with us as soon as possible."

Extra officers are on patrol in the area to reassure residents and gather information.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101 ext 69191, quoting reference 1052 11/02/14, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.