With many residents and businesses affected by the Covid-19 pandemic, it’s understandable the risk of terrorism hasn’t been at the front of our minds recently.

Following the recent attacks in Vienna and France, the UK’s terrorism threat level has changed from substantial to severe. This change was not based on a specific threat to the UK, but is a reminder for us all to remain alert, vigilant and report suspicious activity to police.

If you have any concerns, for example if you’ve witnessed suspicious activity or behaviour or anything that seems out of place, please report it to the police immediately, wherever you are. What you tell the police is treated in the strictest confidence and is thoroughly researched by experienced officers before and if, any police action is taken.

You can report your concerns, confidentially, at www.gov.uk/ACT or by phone on 0800 789 321. In an emergency always call 999.

Terror attacks are rare, but being prepared and knowing what to do can keep you, your friends and family safe. The key advice to anyone caught up in an incident is to RUN, HIDE if you can’t run, TELL the police once safe.

The safety of residents, businesses and visitors to the district is one of our key priorities and we work closely with the police and our partners to keep our area safe.