A man being hunted by police after he was suspected of killing two people in their own homes was arrested today.

James Allen, 36, was arrested in south Leeds at 7.20am and is being held on suspicion of murder in connection with the deaths of Colin Dunford, in Middlesbrough, and Julie Davison, in Whitby.

Cleveland Police and North Yorkshire Police issued an urgent appeal to find Allen following the murders.

A Cleveland Police spokeswoman said: "A 36-year-old man has been arrested in south Leeds at around 7.20am today on suspicion of murder in connection with both incidents and inquiries are ongoing.

"Cleveland Police and North Yorkshire Police would like to thank members of the public for their support in this matter."

West Yorkshire Police spokesman said Allen was arrested on Crown Point Road after an off-duty officer saw a man fitting his description.

Assistant Chief Constable Mark Milsom, of West Yorkshire Police, said: "An off-duty officer travelling to work this morning saw a man fitting the description of James Allen on Crown Point Road in Leeds.

"They called for colleagues in support who arrived quickly and an arrest was made.

"We would like to thank all members of the community who have been contacting us to assist in this matter."