Thousands of pounds worth of counterfeit cigarettes have been uncovered from a secret compartment inside a Tyneside shop – thanks to partnership working between police and a local authority.

Officers from Byker Neighbourhood Police Team, alongside Trading Standards officers with Newcastle City Council  searched a shop in the Shields Road area of Byker on Monday.

Once inside, the teams found counterfeit tobacco items valued at £3,000 within a concealed area.

This is a significant haul of suspected illegal goods and we hope it sends out a clear message that we will act against those who seek to sell them in our communities.

Fake items may be tempting to buy as they cost less than the real thing, but they may not meet important safety standards and could be potentially dangerous.

While some people may think the sale of counterfeit products is a victimless crime, the reality is the money often ends up in the hands of organised criminals so they can continue their illicit activities.

This latest activity comes as we continue to mark Neighbourhood Policing Week – showcasing the excellent work our neighbourhood officers do for the benefit of communities.

If you'd like to share some information and help keep illegal tobacco out of your community, you can report it on the Illegal Tobacco Hotline by calling 0300 999 0000. It's quick, easy and completely anonymous.

You can report crime or serious activity to us using the ‘Report’ page on our website or by calling 101.

Alternatively, you can contact independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.