TWO men were arrested for weapons offences after their van was stopped by police in a village centre.

Police were alerted to a suspicious looking van in Butterknowle, County Durham, at about 6.30pm on Sunday.

Armed officers swooped on the vehicle when it was spotted in nearby Cockfield, a short while later.

A Durham police spokesperson said: “Officers were called to reports of a suspicious van in Butterknowle at about 6.30pm on Sunday, August 18.

“The van was stopped by officers in Cockfield where two men were arrested.

“A 29-year-old was arrested on suspicion of possessing an air rifle while a 24-year-old was arrested for the same offence, as well as on suspicion of possessing a bladed article.

“The 29-year-old was given a caution.

“The 24-year-old was given a caution for possessing a bladed article and no further action was taken against him regarding the air rifle allegation.

“We would like to thank the public for reporting this incident."

The force encouraged members of the public to report suspicious activity to Durham Constabulary by calling 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800-555111.