Security was stepped up at Stansted Airport after staff found a suspicious item in hand luggage.

Essex Police said the item was identified as it passed through central security at 9pm yesterday.

Neither police nor the airport would confirm what it was, although some reports have suggested it was a gun.

Stansted spokesman Melvyn Nice said: "As a result of a suspected incident, enhanced security measures were immediately put in place for all flights departing from Stansted Airport.

“Following the implementation of additional passenger and bag searches, nothing untoward was discovered and the incident was stood down shortly after 1am today.

Essex Police said additional checks were made on all outbound flights, which led to delays for some flights.

“Nothing untoward was found and no incidents resulted,” said police.

A full investigation is underway.