POLICE have warned residents not to be alarmed after the terrorism threat level was raised to critical.

Following the bomb attack in Manchester, police in Gloucestershire have been working to assess the threat of a terrorist attack in the county.

Chief constable Rod Hansen said: "As I am sure you are aware, last night the Prime Minister raised the threat level to critical.

"This means experts have assessed the situation and they believe that not only does an attack remain highly likely but a further attack may be imminent.

“As a result of this change, Operation Temperer was actioned which means the police service can ask for support from the military.

“I’m sure you would expect us to do everything possible to prevent further atrocities from taking place and this is in line with that commitment.

"We are continuing to review our plans and are working with the organisers of some high profile events to ensure a visible police presence across the county and everyone’s safety over the coming days and beyond.

“Terrorists want to create discord, distrust and fear.

"We are asking the public to be alert but not alarmed.

"However, we need our communities to help us defeat terrorism. We depend on information from you to be our eyes and ears, in our efforts to keep us all safe.

"If you are concerned, please dial 999 immediately or call the anti-terror hotline 0800 789321.

“Acts of terrorism and hate crimes are committed by a small minority of people and are not representative of the public.

"This is a time for us all to work closely together and unite against those who seek, through violence and extremism, to intimidate or cause fear.

“Finally, I want to again express my condolences to the families of the victims who lost their lives or those who suffered injury.

"In response, we continue to see remarkable acts of humanity, courage and support.

"I extend my sincere thanks to everyone involved in the operation so far and admire the officers and staff at Greater Manchester Police for their highly professional response.

"Gloucestershire Constabulary is supporting the national effort and will continue to do so but please be reassured that our main focus is to keep the people of Gloucestershire safe.”

Assistant chief constable Julian Moss added that inappropriate messages on social media in the aftermath of the attack would not be tolerated.

He said: "There can never be any excuse for hate crime in any shape or form and this criminality will not be tolerated, online or in person.

“More than ever in these uncertain times we want those who are victims of hate crime to feel confident in the belief that we’ll take your reports seriously, protect you and make sure you get all the support you need.

“Over the last few days, we have been reaching out to reassure and strengthen bonds with the communities we serve and we will continue to do this.”