NORTH Yorkshire Police says it will begin to withdraw the routine patrols of armed officers at key locations and events over the coming days.

It follows the announcement this afternoon by the Home Secretary that the UK threat level from international terrorism has been reduced from "critical" to "severe."

Armed officers from the Civil Nuclear Constabulary, who were drafted in to provide additional public protection in North Yorkshire and the City of York under Operation Temperer, have now been released back to their home force.

Assistant chief constable Phil Cain, of North Yorkshire Police, said: "I thank the officers from the Civil Nuclear Constabulary for supporting our own officers and staff who have been working around the clock in response to this national threat. The whole team has done a great job and we are deeply thankful.

"While there has been no indication that North Yorkshire or the City of York were at risk on this occasion, it was vital that we provided a reassuring and visible presence, especially at busy locations and events across the area. This included armed officers working alongside the neighbourhood policing teams.

"We are mindful that the deployment of armed officers on patrol can be scary for some people, but we find the majority of people understand that they are there to protect them from harm. Again, we are grateful for this understanding and support.

"We continue to urge members of the public to be alert but not alarmed, and to report anything that they deem to be suspicious immediately by telling a police officer, by calling 101 or by calling the Anti-Terrorist Hotline on 0800 789 321. Always call 999 in an emergency or for immediate assistance.”

For further information about reporting suspicious behaviour, visit https://act.campaign.gov.uk/.