UPDATE: Locations for armed police patrols in Peterborough revealed

Armed police will patrol some of Peterborough's most popular attractions as part of an anti-terrorism campaign.
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Armed police

Armed officers will be visible at Peterborough Cathedral, Queensgate Shopping Centre and places which make up the night-time economy.

Detective Superintendent Glen Channer, from the Eastern Region Special Operations Unit and Counter Terrorism Policing, said: “We know that the Christmas period is a busy time, with many more people than usual visiting town centres, enjoying the night-time economy and attending events such as Christmas markets.

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“We want everyone to have a safe festive period and that’s why we’re urging people stay alert and make it harder for terrorists to carry out or plan an attack.”

The armed patrols form part of the Action Counters Terrorism campaign which is reminding people to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity with footfall into town centres set to increase over the festive period.

From this week the Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire Armed Policing Unit will see armed officers carry out more visible and proactive patrols as part of a new operation.

Police say the move has not been introduced because of any specific intelligence, but is designed to help make the public feel reassured and ensure more regular armed patrols are carried out at key locations across the three counties.

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Chief Inspector Julia Hands, of the Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire Armed Policing Unit, said: “The safety of the public is our number one priority which is why we’ve decided to increase the visibility of our armed officers.

“From this week onwards our armed officers will be more visible at key sites across the three counties, carrying out proactive patrols and talking to the public.

“I’d like to reassure the public that this move is not being taken because of any intelligence about any current threats, and if anyone does have any concerns please do speak to one of our officers while they’re out and about.”

The Action Counters Terrorism campaign is run by the National Counter Terrorism Police and encourages people to be alert and report any suspicious activity.