A HIGH profile police presence in Stratford this Christmas is nothing to worry about.
Warwickshire Police is reassuring residents and visitors that it is all part of Project Servator, which started in the town in the summer, with the aim of disrupting a range of criminal activity, including terrorism.
It is used by a number of forces across the country, with Straford the first focus in Warwickshire.
Deployments are made up of a range of police resources, which can include police dogs, CCTV operators and security staff, and Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR).
Plain clothes police officers blend in with the crowd while uniformed police officers engage with the public to provide reassurance and raise awareness of the role the community can play in preventing crime.
On some occasions, vehicle checkpoints and even air support from helicopters and drones are used. Police forces also work together to carry out joint Project Servator deployments.
A Warwickshire Police spokesperson said: “We’d like to reassure that Project Servator is not being run based on intelligence of an increased threat to Warwickshire. The national terror threat level remains at ‘substantial’, and this is part of ensuring people living and visiting Stratford feel safe.
“Project Servator officers will pop up at unpredictable times and locations to engage with visitors, residents and local businesses to create a network of vigilance across Stratford.
“Across the whole festive period we’re increasing our policing presence at events across the county with officers on hand to respond quickly to any concerns you have.
“We all have a role to play in helping to keep our streets safe. Trust your instincts and report anything that doesn’t feel right. You will never be wasting our time.”
Anyone who sees something suspicious, should tell a police officer but if an emergency, always call 999.
