‘We’re doing everything possible to keep people safe’ – more officers on Somerset’s streets as UK terror threat hits ‘critical’

Emergency services at Manchester Arena after reports of an explosion at the venue during an Ariana Grande gig. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Photo credit: Peter Byrne/PA Wire.

At least 22 people were killed and 120 injured after an attack at an Ariana Grande concert at the Manchester Arena on Monday.

Last night (Tuesday) the threat level of international terrorism in the UK was raised to critical, which means another attack may be imminent.

As a result, military personnel will be deployed alongside police at a number of locations nationwide. This will free up armed officers from certain duties to enable them to support the wider policing response to the tragic events in Manchester.

MORE: Avon and Somerset police chief offers reassurance against ‘determined threat of terrorism’ after Manchester attackA statement released by Avon and Somerset Constabulary this morning (Wednesday) says: “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.”

MORE: Election campaigns suspended in Weston-super-Mare, to show respect for victims of Manchester attack.