ANTI-TERROR police this morning arrested a suspected white supremacist in the North-East.

The 41-year-old, named locally as Ian Davison, is believed to be involved in extreme right-wing activity, and was arrested at a house in Myrtle Grove, Burnopfield, County Durham.

He is being held for questioning by officers from Durham Constabulary and the North East Counter Terrorism Unit at a police station in West Yorkshire.

The arrest follows a long-running intelligence-led operation. Inquiries are on-going.

Detective Superintendent Neil Malkin, who is leading the investigation, said: "People across the force area can be reassured we are better prepared than ever before to combat the threat of terrorism, whether it stems from home or abroad.

"We are committed to tackling extremism in all its forms."

As part of the same operation an 18-year-old man has also been arrested at Grampian Court, Annfield Plain, on suspicion of inciting racial hatred.

He has been taken to Consett police station for questioning

Read the full story in tomorrow's Northern Echo