Anti-terrorism police advise Britons to stay safe over bank holiday weekend

Counter-terrorism police have urged the public to be vigilant over the bank holiday weekend in the face of the increased terrorism threat. They said there was no specific threat in relation to events taking place but the crowded places are particularly vulnerable. Among events taking place this weekend are Reading and Leeds festivals, Notting Hill carnival, a full programme of football, the women’s rugby union World Cup final and the rugby league Challenge cup final, among others. The latest terror attacks in London and Manchester have prompted a sharp increase in the number of requests for armed police presence at events. Counter-terrorism officers have already trained football stewards, as well as festival and events staff, in how to spot suspicious behaviour and what to do in the event of an attack - but DCS Scott Wilson said it was important for the public to arm themselves with such knowledge as well. He said: “While there is no information to suggest that any event is facing an increased risk of attack, the fact is that the UK’s threat level remains at ‘severe’, which means an attack is highly likely. “We know only too well that tragic events can happen without warning at any time or place, and crowded places can be particularly vulnerable. With so many events taking place this weekend, we want as many people as possible to know exactly how to keep themselves and others safe.” Ben Wallace, Security Minister, said: “The recent terror attacks in the UK and across Europe have been a shocking reminder of the threat we all face. This is a job for all of us. The public also have a vital role to play as they are ideally placed to notice activity which is unusual. “Families and communities should enjoy themselves this bank holiday, while remaining alert but not alarmed by the threat and report any concerns to the police.”