A POPULAR riverside area has been closed after cancer-causing poisons were discovered on the land.

Saltmeadows, on Gateshead riverside, is a popular spot for people walking their dogs, fishing and cycling.

Signs warn people to keep off the land.

The Keelman's Way cycle route has been diverted, footpaths across the area have been closed and business units on the Saltmeadows industrial estate within the site have been alerted.

The dioxins, cancer-causing pollutants found in the soil, are believed to be from chemical works dating back to Victorian times.

Paul Dowling, head of regulatory services for Gateshead Council, said: "It is important to stress these are purely precautionary steps. Once we have a clearer risk assessment, and we are awaiting this from our consultants along with further information from the Environment Agency, we'll have a better idea of what long-term measures, if any, we will need to take.

"In the meantime, we are strongly urging the public not to enter this site."