Brian Forster, who has six years’ experience working with the security company, made the discovery during routine screening of carry-on bags, a process that takes place around 6-8,000 times daily at the busy airport.

Mark Allen, Aviation Contract Manager, Securitas Transport Aviation Security at Liverpool Airport, says: “Approximately 3-4 million passengers pass through Liverpool Airport every year, and while it is not uncommon for us to confiscate knives from members of the travelling public, most of whom simply aren’t aware that it’s an offence to carry the likes of a Swiss Army knife in their hand luggage, finding ammunition and other weaponry is very rare.”

Stephen Taylor from the Airport concurs: “It’s extremely gratifying and reassuring to know that, even though it is sometimes like looking for a needle in a haystack, years of experience and expert training mean that the security team is alert to suspicious objects.

“We applaud the officer who spotted this hoard hidden in a shoe in the passenger’s luggage for his vigilance and the calm, professional manner in which he handled the situation.”

Brian was presented with a token of thanks in recognition of his efforts at a ceremony at Liverpool Airport.

Securitas Transport Aviation Security is a key provider of Aviation Security at several major airports within the UK, in both the North and South of the country. To support its security operations, it has a comprehensive department providing up-to-date training solutions, and is approved by the Department of Transport to train officers within the UK Aviation industry. The company is also tasked with testing security at other airports, challenging their integrity and identifying any training requirements.