Armed police officers will patrol the streets of Avon and Somerset this week following the increase in international terrorism threat level

The UK’s threat level has been raised to critical – meaning an attack is thought to be imminent – after an explosion on a London Underground train at Parsons Green station on Friday.

A second man has since been arrested in connection with the incident, which injured around 30 people.

Avon and Somerset Constabulary has today (Sunday) issued a statement confirming it has been given extra resources in response to the increased threat level, but has reiterated there is ‘no current threat’ to the South West.

Assistant chief constable Nikki Watson said: “Following the rise in international terrorism threat level to critical we’ve been constantly reviewing our operational policing plans to ensure we’re doing everything we can to protect the public.

“Under Operation Temperer we’ve now been allocated additional policing resources to increase the number of officers on the streets of Avon and Somerset.

“This means the public will see more armed officers over the course of this weekend and into next week, particularly in crowded places such as shopping centres, key transport hubs, iconic sites and at sporting events.

“We know the terrible events in London will have caused concern and our thoughts are with all the people affected.

“I’d like to stress there remains no current threat to the South West and the public should not be alarmed if they see more armed or unarmed officers in their communities.

“Our advice and clear message remains the same – please be alert, but not alarmed.

“Be reassured that we have well-established and well-rehearsed plans in place to deal with attacks of this nature and these are tested regularly with partners to ensure we’re as ready as we possible can.”

Anyone who sees any suspicious behaviour or activity can report it by calling 101 or the Anti-Terrorist Hotline on 0800 789321.