SECURITY at Europe's biggest Army base was under scrutiny last night after a civilian cook was found with an imitation gun.

The 42-year-old man was arrested at Bourlon Barracks, in Catterick Garrison, North Yorkshire, yesterday.

The incident comes after four high-powered rifles were stolen from the barracks last year.

Sources say police were called after the man showed the fake pistol to a colleague.

It is understood the imitation was found in the glove compartment of his car.

The man was employed by catering contractors Sodexho. No one from the company was available for comment yesterday.

A North Yorkshire Policespokesman said: "Officers visited Bourlon Barracks on Monday morning. One person, a 42-year-old man, was arrested for possession of an imitation firearm in a public place."

An Army spokesman said: "We can confirm North Yorkshire Police were called to Bourlon Barracks yesterday to investigate an incident.

"As a matter of policy, we do not discuss security matters."

Catterick Garrison Councillor Paul Cullen said: "I'm sure this incident will be looked at and if there has been any lapse, steps will be taken."

The barracks are home to the 1st Battalion, the King's Regiment. In June last year, a major security operation was launched when four high-powered rifles were stolen from the regiment's armoury.

It was feared that the weapons could have been stolen to order for use by terrorists or criminal gangs.

Troops were barred from leaving the base for 24 hours, and sniffer dogs were brought in to search the barracks.