ARMED police will carry out patrols at events this Christmas and new year across Dorset.

Officers will ‘continue to work day and night to protect against terrorism’ amid the UK terror threat level rising from ‘substantial’ to ‘severe’ meaning an attack is now ‘highly likely’.

Dorset Police has issued a statement reassuring the public of their safety and remind people to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the police.

Local Policing Commander Chief Superintendent Mark Callaghan said: “The threat level is designed to inform the public and guide the level of response by police and other agencies who lead on public safety and national security.

“Officers will continue to work day and night to protect them against the threat of terrorism. The increased threat level activates an enhanced police response that is tried and tested, to ensure that the UK is well prepared and protected.

“There is no specific threat to our local communities and the change in threat level is a precautionary measure. Whilst we want the public to remain alert, they should not be alarmed by the change.

"As is normal practice, the Force is reviewing its policing of planned events over the coming weeks, including Christmas markets and New Year’s Eve celebrations.

“We continue to work closely with our communities – including businesses, faith groups and community groups – to provide reassurance and seek their support and assistance. In line with our seasonal response with our partners, the public can expect to see a visible police presence in crowded places, which at times may include armed officers as part of our patrol planning and providing reassurance to our communities.

“Communities defeat terrorism, and it remains vitally important that the public remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to police.

“Our efforts can only succeed where we have the support of the public. So we would urge everyone to remain vigilant, and if you do see anything suspicious then please report it, in confidence, to police via the Anti-terrorist hotline or gov.uk/ACT. It won't ruin lives, but it may well save them.”

The rise in terror threat level comes after the attack outside a maternity hospital in Liverpool and the killing of MP Sir David Amess.

Chief Superintendent Mark Callaghan said: “Policing continues to work closely with the government and parliamentary authorities to review the security offering for MPs, ensuring a consistent security response wherever they are in the country.

“Dorset Police individually contacted every Dorset Member of Parliament following the tragic killing of Sir David Amess to remind them of the security arrangements available to them and encourage them to report any security concerns.”