TWO schoolboys arrested over a suspected terror plot were this evening charged by police with conspiracy to murder.

The North-East Counter Terrorism Unit confirmed the pair, who were arrested in Northallerton on Saturday under the Terrorism Act 2006, will appear in court tomorrow.

In addition to conspiracy to murder, one of the teenagers – who are both from Northallerton – has also been charged with aggravated burglary.

Police carried out searches in connection with the investigation at several locations in the area, including three residential properties and a disused tyre depot in Romanby.

Following the conspiracy to murder charges being brought, Deputy Chief Constable  Lisa Winward of North Yorkshire Police, sought to ease the concerns of residents and said: “We wholeheartedly understand the concerns shared by the communities in Northallerton and the wider area of North Yorkshire. 

“However we would like to reassure the public that local officers are committed to ensuring the public remain safe, and are working hard to reassure those communities who have been affected.”

Stuart Carlton, director of children and young people’s services at North Yorkshire County Council, said: “We fully recognise that there are concerns as a result of this investigation.

"We are working with the police to provide reassurance to the local community, and in particular to the young people, parents and staff connected with this case and we will continue to provide support with our partners.”

Northallerton Mayor John Forrest this week urged residents to 'carry on and keep their chins up' as the town became the centre of national interest in the terrorism arrests.

The two boys, who were held at a police station in West Yorkshire following their arrest, have been remanded in custody to appear at Leeds Magistrates' Court tomorrow.