SECURITY at a North-East airport has been put under the spotlight after a man chased away two youths trying to steal his motorbike.

John Pala saw the youths trying to break the lock on his bike as he returned to the car park at Durham Tees Valley Airport at 2pm on Monday, and chased them off before he called the police.

Mr Pala, of Carmel Gardens, Darlington, said: "When I spoke to the officers, they told me there were many break-ins and thefts from vehicles at the airport.

"Although there are security cameras in place, it would appear they are not effective enough, or the offenders know which areas are not covered by them.

"These youths did not seem deterred by the cameras or the fact there were security guards just around the corner."

Inspector Sue Collingwood, of Darlington police, said: "Wherever there are a high number of parked vehicles for long periods of time, you can expect to see some thefts, and we are aware there has been a spate of break-ins over recent weeks.

"However, the criminals are not stupid and will not operate in one area for a great length of time.

"We are aware of the incidents and are working closely with staff at the airport to monitor the situation."

An airport spokeswoman said: "We do have security cameras covering the car park and terminals and high-visibility security guards.

"We expect the security measures will be developed further along with the proposed expansion of the airport."