THE director of a North-East arts venue has been suspended following his arrest in London over allegations of indecency.

Stephen Snoddy, who was appointed director of Gateshead's Baltic, was suspended after being interviewed by Metropolitan Police on Tuesday.

A Metropolitan Police spokesman confirmed Mr Snoddy had been questioned about an allegation of sexual assault in the Hackney and Clapton area on July 9.

The spokesman said: "A man in his 40s has been arrested in connection with this investigation and was released on police bail to attend again in September."

A Baltic spokesman said last night: "Pending the outcome of a police investigation, Stephen Snoddy has been suspended from Baltic with immediate effect.

"Until further notice, Andrew Lovett - currently director of finance and resources - will act as director of Baltic."

Mr Snoddy, who is married with three children and was originally from Belfast, took up his post at the Baltic in March.