Armed police are patrolling train North-East stations and Durham Tees Valley airport in response to heightened security across the UK.

Durham Police said it had armed officers at Durham and Darlington railway stations as well as Durham Tees Valley Airport.

Police said there was no direct threat and it was in line with policing activities around the country.

Cleveland Police said it was stepping up anti-terrorist patrols, but no armed officers were being sent to stations.

A Durham Police spokesman said: "As part of the national tightening of security regarding recent terrorist attacks on the transport network, Durham Constabulary now has armed police officers patrolling Durham Central and Darlington railway stations as well as Durham Tees Valley Airport."

Cleveland Police said it was stepping up anti-terrorist patrols seven days after the latest incidents in London.

Det Ch Supt Mark Braithwaite said the force had armed officers on mobile patrol at all times in its area and these would continue.

He said: "High-visibility patrols have been increased since the terrorist attacks and they will continue.

"Like our neighbouring forces we are taking appropriate measures."

He urged the public to be alert at all times.