AIRPORT bosses have announced plans to appeal against a High Court ruling clearing an international law firm of negligence.

Newcastle International Airport Ltd will contest a judge's decision that Eversheds was not to blame after former chief executive John Parkin walked away with a multi-million pound bonus.

The judge ruled last month that the directors of the company that runs the airport did not properly understand they had entered into contracts allowing Mr Parkin and former finance director Lars Friis to claim bonuses totalling £8m.

The airport owner had sued Eversheds for "alleged negligence" in relation to contracts entered into in 2006. Eversheds said it acted on "good faith on the basis of instructions".

Mrs Justice Proudman ruled in favour of Eversheds saying non-executive directors had "failed" to carry out their obligations.

The airport said in a statement yesterday: “After careful consideration regarding the recent High Court judgement in respect of its legal proceedings against Eversheds LLP, Newcastle International Airport Ltd has decided to appeal.

“Due to the legal nature of the additional action, Newcastle International Airport Limited is unable to comment further at this time.”

According to reports, the airport could face court costs of more than £1m if it loses the appeal, with £500,000 already being transferred to a holding account.