A letter bomb has been found addressed to Barnet MP Theresa Villiers.

The “viable device” targeting the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland was sent to political offices at Stormont Castle, near Belfast, where it was discovered today.

Chipping Barnet representative Ms Villiers is in London holding talks with Northern Ireland politicians over the peace process in the historically turbulent region.

The army was called in to deal with the package, described as "viable", and the building was evacuated. No-one was hurt.

Dissident Republicans are being blamed for the threat, which follows letter bombs that were sent to the police and public prosecutions service in Londonderry earlier this week.

Conservative politician Ms Villiers condemned the threats in a statement this afternoon.

She said: “I utterly condemn the attempted attacks we've seen over recent days. If those responsible think that this kind of criminal activity will further any agenda, then they are completely mistaken.”