Revellers across the UK are more likely to see armed police on guard outside concert halls, nightclubs and festivals, after the bombing of a pop concert in Manchester in which 22 people were killed.
The Metropolitan, South Wales and Humberside police forces were among those that announced increased security measures for forthcoming events, while promoters expressed their sympathy with those caught up in the bombing and vowed that customers’ safety was a priority.
The Met, which leads on counter-terrorism policing across the country, said it was bolstering Operation Hercules, which includes the deployment of overt armed officers across the capital, to “make London as hostile an environment as possible for any would-be attacker”.
Officers may be present at many smaller events that may not have previously had police protection, said the Met, which added that it was liaising with promoters to ensure they were given the latest protective security advice.
Cdr Jane Connors of the Met said: “Here in London we are determined to do all we can to protect the capital. That means that over the coming days as you go to a music venue, go shopping, travel to work or head off to the fantastic sporting events you will see more officers – including armed officers.
“We are used to delivering policing operations that seek to mitigate against the severe threat we face from terrorists. It is only right that we now take time to review those existing plans and make sure we are confident that we are doing all we can.”
Humberside police said people preparing to attend the Radio 1 Big Weekend in Hull from Saturday should expect stringent security checks. In a video posted on YouTube, Asst Ch Con Andy McDyer said in the coming weeks the public would see high-visibility police patrolling, including officers carrying long weapons”.
“In relation to the Radio 1 big event this weekend, you will see enhanced security,” he said. “So when you come to the bus depots where you get on to get your bus to the event, be prepared to be searched. Please get there early and be aware there will be an increased security operation in place.
“Likewise, when you get to the event itself, there will be searching and an increased police presence.”
South Wales police, which are preparing security for the Uefa Champions League final in Cardiff on 1 June, said access to areas around the stadiums on event days would be limited and ticket-holders could expect rigorous security checks.
“We are working with our partners here in South Wales as well as with other security forces across the country to ensure a safe and secure environment for the Finals in June, as well as other concerts and major events held in the region,” McDyer said.
We Are FSTVL in Upminster, Greater London, also takes place this weekend. In a statement, the promoters said: “We Are FSTVL consider the safety and security of our audience, performers, contractors and staff as paramount.
“In conjunction with the Metropolitan police and local authority we have produced robust detailed plans for the event in its entirety for the last 10 months. We will continue to review plans and update where necessary, in consultation with all agencies.”
Manchester’s Parklife festival also released a statement, expressing sympathy for the loved ones of victims of the Manchester Arena attack. It added: “Parklife will go ahead as planned, and we are continually liaising with the security and local police to ensure the safety of our customers. We are certain we will not be defeated by such cowardice.”
