GEORDIE television stars Ant and Dec returned to their home city yesterday to open a wing at Newcastle Airport.

The TV entertainers opened the £7m redevelopment of the terminal.

High Street companies which have also moved into the 3,000sq metre extension include Burger King, Boots, Tie Rack and WH Smith.

There is also a new tax and duty-free department store, operated by Alpha Retail, and a tax-free Dixons outlet.

Airport chief executive John Parkin said: "This is an exciting time for everyone at Newcastle International and we are pleased that we are able to offer our customers all these new services in this busy summer season."

Business at the airport is booming. Passenger numbers for this year are expected to reach nearly five million, a 23 per cent increase from last year's figures.

Mr Parkin said: "We are confident that our passengers will enjoy the exceptional quality and range of facilities we now have on offer.

"With the unveiling of the terminal extension, Newcastle International now offers one of the best airport environments in Europe."