A County Durham school was placed on lockdown this afternoon after two teenagers were reported to have "air weapons", it has been confirmed.

King James I Academy in Bishop Auckland was placed under the "emergency lockdown" just before 1pm today following the report of intruders as pupils were brought to safety.

A text message was sent out to parents confirming the lockdown at 1.20pm and reassured them that all students were safe and accounted for.

The text read: “The school is currently in an emergency lockdown, this is due to intruders on site. All students are safe and we are in contact with the police.

“Please do not contact the school or students as it may tie up the phone lines and cause under panic. We will be in touch with further updates. - King James I Academy.”

Police have now confirmed that a search of the area was subsequently carried out but found "no trace" of the youths.

A spokesman for Durham Constabulary said: “Shortly before 1pm, we were alerted to reports of two teenagers on a field behind King James 1 School, in Bishop Auckland possibly in possession of air weapons.

“The school instituted procedures to safeguard pupils and officers attended to carry out a search of the area.

“Police carried out an extensive search but found no trace of the youths and informed the school. The incident was stood down at around 1.45pm”.

King James I Academy has been contacted for more information.