Love-struck holiday-makers are being given a "secret word" to get engagement rings through security at a UK airport without tipping off their partner.

Travellers thinking of popping the question abroad to a loved one over the Valentine's Day weekend just need to mention the password to security staff, who will then give them further instructions.

In order to find out the word, East Midlands Airport passengers need to email love@eastmidlandsairport.com in advance or alternatively send a direct message on Twitter to @ema_airport.

The airport said passenger numbers were up 9% on last year with 90,000 people expected through check-in as the half-term break gets under way.

Howard Ebison, the airport's customer service director, said: "We're hoping that we can make everyone's journey through the airport as great an experience as possible, including those travelling with a special ring for their partners.

"As this year is a leap year, we're hoping that many of our passengers will be planning a romantic proposal, but the secret word will only be revealed to those travelling, so you will need to get in touch with our team of Cupid's little helpers."

For those romantics not planning on getting down on one knee this weekend, airport staff will also be handing out love-heart chocolates.