Kent Police is liaising with the Home Office to regularly assess the national threat levels and what that means for county communities following the horrific bomb attack in Manchester on Monday (May 22).
The attack at an Ariana Grande concert left 22 people dead and injured 64. Twelve of those rushed to hospital were children.
In the wake of the attack the UK terror threat has been raised to critical, meaning the threat of another attack is thought to be imminent.
In light of the decision to increase the national threat level to ‘critical,’ work is underway to make sure Kent remains a safe place.
A Kent Police statement says: “This work is part of an agreed, and well-rehearsed national plan that includes the possible deployment of military personnel to support police officers. Kent Police has not requested the support of military personnel at this time.
“Kent Police already deploys highly-visible firearms officers at key locations in the county as part of our current deployment and as a result of this on-going work, additional police officer patrols are being arranged.
“Our sympathies remain with those affected by the events in Manchester but we ask people to continue to enjoy our county and stay alert, not alarmed.
“This threat level applies to the whole of the UK and not any specific area. As such, the whole UK public should remain alert and vigilant and report anything suspicious by calling the Anti Terrorist Hotline 0800 789 321.”
Hustings postponed
An election hustings due to take place in Ramsgate tomorrow (May 25) has been postponed in respect for the tragic events.
Parliamentary candidates for South Thanet were due to be grilled by teachers and parents at the event at the Red Arrows Club off Newington Road.
But the event, organised on behalf of the National Union of Teachers, has now been moved to June 1.
A spokesman said: “After the tragic events in Manchester this week, and in line with the rest of the country, we have decided to postpone the hustings.
“We have rescheduled with the venue and will now be holding the event on Thursday, June 1, at the same time.
“Thank you for your understanding.”
Safety at Dreamland
Security is being reviewed ahead of Dreamland Margate’s opening on Friday in light of the Manchester atrocity.
A spokesman for Dreamland said: “Our thoughts are with everyone affected by the attack at the Manchester Arena on Monday night. The safety and security of our guests and staff is paramount at all times and we have strict safety procedures and protocol in place for the park, whether that be during standard operation or special events.
“In light of the events over the past 24 hours we are reviewing these with the relevant authorities.”