Two British fighter jets - armed with laser guided bombs - have completed a tour over Iraq for the first time since MPs backed airstrikes against Islamic State militants.

The Ministry of Defence (MoD) said the jets did not conduct air strikes but rather undertook reconnaissance work.

The MOD said in a statement: "We can confirm that, following parliamentary approval given yesterday, RAF Tornados continue to fly over Iraq and are now ready to be used in an attack role as and when appropriate targets are identified.

"For operational security reasons we will not be providing a running commentary on movements; we will provide an update on activity when it is appropriate to do so."

The fighter jets landed back at RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus, seven hours after departing.

The British Parliament voted to join the action against the Islamic State, by a majority of 524 to 43.