SECURITY staff at Stansted Airport were forced to spring into action today after spotting what appeared to be a handgun in the back pocket of a passenger.

Essex Police officers based at the airport tweeted about the hair-raising incident, showing how the item would have looked if placed in a back pocket.

After seizing the item, officers revealed it was in fact an iPhone case shaped like a gun.

An police spokesman said: "Essex Police was informed by Stansted Airport security staff that they had dealt with this incident during routine screening of passenger carry-on bags and possessions."

The force has issued advice to ensure passengers pass through security checks as quickly as possible.

The spokesman added: "Travellers are asked to consider the types of item they bring to the airport as they could lead to extra security checks or delays and/or police involvement.

"This could lead to them potentially missing their flight or not being allowed to travel."