A SECOND person has been arrested amid inquiries into a social media site promoting outings and longer excursions from a North-East town.

Northumbria Police said today (Wednesday August 12) that a 32-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of fraud.

It follows the arrest of a 24-year-old woman, last month, also on suspicion of fraud.

Both have now been bailed pending further investigations into potential fraud offences arising from a ‘South Shields day trips’ Facebook page.

The force yesterday (Tuesday August 11) held a private meeting with customers of the site, to obtain further information on potential offences.

More than 100 people attended the meeting, at Chuter Ede School, in South Shields, resulting in statements being taken from 104 alleged victims.

Police confirmed that the company behind the site, whose operations were previously suspended, has now ceased operating.

Detective Inspector Paul Stewart, who is leading the investigation, said: “I’d like to thank everyone who attended this meeting.

“It allowed us to gather more information, plus give updates on where the investigation is currently at.

"Our investigation into all reports is continuing and we will keep victims updated as this progresses.

“Due to the volume of reports I’d once again ask for people’s patience while we work through each one made to us.”

He urged anyone yet to come forward who believes they may have also fallen foul of the suspected fraud to now contact police.

The force became involved after doubts were raised over the validity of the outings being promoted on the site.

All trips booked through the company were suspended and the company, which has now ceased trading, initially suspended operations pending the outcome of the police investigation.

Attempts were made to contact customers, although it was not initially possible to get in touch with everyone who had dealings with the company and so the public meeting was called.

All those with complaints were asked to bring documentary evidence of money paid to the company.

More than 200 complaints were said to have been made in relation to the Facebook page.

Anyone with further information is asked to contact police, on the 101 non-emergency number, quoting the reference number 628 24/07/15.