AIRPORT staff issued a security warning today after a passenger tried to carry pease pudding on to a plane.

The traditional northern snack - made from boiled split peas and ham fat - was confiscated from hand luggage at Newcastle International Airport.

It was part of the 450 litres of banned liquids seized by staff each day, including bottles of water, fizzy pop and suntan lotion, vintage champagne and spirits, jars of Marmite and bottles of tomato ketchup.

Head of operations Chris Davis said it was costing the airport a fortune in recycling and waste disposal.

He urged people to remember security regulations prohibiting the carrying of liquid items in hand luggage.

He said: ''The current restrictions on taking liquids through security search have been in place for nearly three years, but many passengers are still unfamiliar with the rules.

''We're asking our customers to make sure they're aware of what can and can't be taken through security search in their hand luggage, particularly in relation to the ban on carrying liquid items larger than 100ml.

''Our aim is to reduce the number of bottles, jars and cans we have to confiscate from passengers and, at the same time, ease the pressure on our security teams.

''The simple rule is to pack suntan lotions, gels, creams and perfumes in your suitcase and check them into the hold.

''If you need any essential liquid items with you on the flight, make sure they are in containers of 100ml or smaller and are put inside a clear, resealable plastic bag.''

Newcastle Airport provides clear plastic bags for passengers free of charge at the entrance to the security search area.