Manchester

Following the recent incidents in Manchester, the following is the latest update from our Chief Constable, Andy Marsh.

Our thoughts remain with the loved ones of those who were killed and injured in the heinous attack on Monday.

Last night (23/5) the threat level of international terrorism in the UK was raised to ‘critical’ – meaning another attack may be imminent.

This is a national threat level and is based on intelligence that is considered credible and specific. As a result, military personnel will be deployed alongside police at a number of locations across the country. This is to free up armed officers from certain duties and to enable them to support the wider UK policing response to the tragic events in Manchester.

There is currently no known threat to the South West and it is unlikely members of the public will see military on the streets of Avon and Somerset although the situation is being kept under constant review.

As a precautionary measure we have increased the number of officers on duty to provide a highly visible, reassurance presence - both armed and unarmed - across the force area and we will do this for as long as is needed.

We have long and well-established plans in place to deal with attacks of this nature and we rehearse them regularly with partners to ensure we are as ready as we possibly can be. We’re doing everything possible to keep people safe.

The public are reminded to remain alert but not alarmed and to report any suspicious behaviour or activity to us on 101 or to the Anti-Terrorist Hotline on 0800 789 321. In an emergency the public should always call 999.

The below message is sent on behalf of the Chief Constable Andy Marsh, following the events in Manchester last evening.

This was a tragic event and our hearts go out to the loved ones of those who were killed and injured.

The sustained and determined threat of terrorism casts a shadow across all our communities and our priority is to reassure them that we’re doing everything we can to keep them safe.

Prior to this appalling incident, plans were already in hand to review our local security arrangements for venues and crowded places.

We have rigorous major incident plans in place which are regularly tested and reviewed during exercises with partner agencies such as ambulance, health and fire to ensure we are as prepared as we possibly can be.

At times like these it’s more important than ever that we stand together as a community and unite against this kind of horrific attack.