A MAN was arrested on suspicion of theft after reports of illegal metal detecting at Hadrian's Wall.

Northumbria Police confirmed that a 44-year-old was arrested after they received a report at 11am on Sunday, July 12, of a male illegally metal detecting close to the Military Road, north of Horsley.

A spokeswoman for Northumbria Police said: "Officers attended the vehicle keeper's address and arrested the male on suspicion of theft."

The force confirmed he had been released under investigation.

In recent years, Northumbria Police has teamed up with Historic England, the organisation responsible for protecting historical sites across the country, to warn off people damaging the Roman Wall in pursuit of hidden treasure.