POLICE are warning the public to be on their guard after a bag of explosives was stolen from a construction worker's car.

The bag, containing 12 detonators, could explode if tampered with so the public have been told to report it to police immediately if they find it.

The bag, which is a distinctive lime green, was stolen from the back of a car at Felling, near Gateshead.

The holdall has Nerey written in large letters on both sides and is about 3ft-long.

Inside is a red metal box, 10in-long by 8in-wide, with Danger Explosives! written on it. This contains a plastic container with two packs of six detonators, which could explode if tampered with.

Usually used in railway construction work, the detonators are yellow, 1.5in in diameter and two lead straps.

A police spokesman said: "If anyone finds this bag they should contact us immediately. If the detonators explode they will pose a threat to life."

Anyone who finds the bag, or knows of its whereabouts, should contact Gateshead police on 0191-2146555.