Northamptonshire residents urged to stay vigilant at Christmas events amid severe UK terror threat
People attending Christmas markets, sporting events and religious celebrations across Northamptonshire are being urged to remain vigilant this winter amid a heightened national terrorism threat level.
Counter Terrorism Policing has relaunched its annual Action Counter Terrorism (ACT) winter campaign, encouraging residents to report suspicious behaviour and help keep communities safe during the festive season.
The campaign comes after the UK's national terrorism threat level was raised to severe earlier this year, meaning an attack is considered highly likely.
Police say large public gatherings can be attractive targets for terrorists and are reminding people of the importance of trusting their instincts if they notice anything unusual.
The campaign focuses on encouraging members of the public to report concerns to event staff, security personnel or police officers rather than ignoring potentially suspicious activity.
Detective Chief Inspector Marianne Winn, protect and prepare lead at Counter Terrorism Policing East Midlands, said: “With a packed programme of events coming up this winter, we’re asking the public to stay alert and look out for one another.
“If something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts and report it – the information you share with staff, security or the police could make a real difference.
“The public are a vital part of our counter terrorism efforts, from speaking up about suspicious behaviour to reporting concerning material online.
“Everyone has a part to play in keeping people safe and safety is a shared responsibility – from police officers and the wider community to local businesses. Reporting won’t ruin lives, but it could save them.”
The national campaign is returning as towns and cities prepare for a busy programme of winter activities, with police emphasising that public reporting remains an important part of counter-terrorism efforts.
Residents are being encouraged to remain aware of their surroundings and report anything that causes concern, even if they are unsure whether it represents a genuine threat.
Information about suspicious activity can be passed directly to police or reported through the official Action Counter Terrorism website.
Officers stress that people should not worry about wasting police time by raising concerns.
Anyone who witnesses suspicious behaviour or encounters concerning material online can submit information at act.campaign.gov.uk.
In an emergency, members of the public should always call 999.