Extra armed police on the streets over Christmas

EXTRA armed police officers will be on the streets of Rotherham and South Yorkshire over the Christmas period to provide reassurance to the public.

South Yorkshire Police said the move aims to act as a 'deterrent' with the country's terror threat remaining at 'severe.'

Chief Supt David Hartley, the force's firearms command lead, said: "The country remains on ‘severe’ threat level and there’s no intelligence to suggest a change to this is on the horizon. However, we recognise that the public would like reassurance as they enjoy the festive period.

"We are planning to increase the visibility of both local officers and armed officers onto the streets and into crowded places to provide visible reassurance and work as a deterrent.

"Putting these officers out onto the streets now should encourage people to go about their business as usual, supported by their local police, both armed and unarmed. I think it’s a good opportunity for people to get to know more about our firearms officers.

"While their weapons may seem intimidating the officers are friendly and approachable so if you do see them around please say hello and they’d be happy to answer any questions you may have."