Security alert disrupts airport

A suspicious item was spotted in baggage

A major security alert is continuing to delay flights at Nottingham East Midlands Airport with armed police attending the scene.

Additional checks on passengers have been introduced as a result of what it has called an "operational alert".

Officials say a "suspicious object" was spotted by a baggage handler at 1415 BST and a police enquiry has begun.

It is hoped services at the Castle Donnington site will return back to normal by Friday morning.

Armed response

In a statement an airport spokesperson said the object was spotted in a passenger's bag while a security guard was cross-checking a screen picture.

In line with security procedures police were immediately alerted and all boarding from the lounge has been stopped until officials are satisfied there is no risk to passenger safety.

The airport confirmed some armed police are based there, though Leicestershire police say they have also been asked to send officers.

Although passengers are still being allowed into departures, all boarding has been postponed.

Alison Ashcroft, from Leicestershire, is one of hundreds stranded.

She said: "It is quite disturbing because there's an awful lot of police officers around.

"Quite a lot of those are armed and now they've brought in the police dogs and we still don't actually know what the problem is."

An airport spokesman apologised for the delays but said the safety and security of passengers is the priority.