SECURITY measures have been stepped up at tourist attractions in the area following the Manchester terror attack.
Prime Minister Theresa May raised the country’s national security state to critical – the highest state of alert – following Monday’s attack – meaning further attacks may be imminent.
Warwick Castle divisional director Nick Blofeld told The Observer: “We take the security of our guests and staff extremely seriously.
“We have robust security measures in place and conduct regular assessments of risks, liaising with law enforcement and intelligence agencies where necessary.
“Following the increased threat level announced by the UK Government, we will take the all the necessary steps to ensure our security measures are strengthened appropriately.”
And in neighouring Shakespeare’s Stratford, measures have also been taken.
Becky Cund, the director responsible for security at the trust, said: “We have stringent security measures and procedures in place, and these are continuously reviewed.
“Since the attacks in London and Manchester we have increased our security patrol and bag searches are now in place across all five of the Shakespeare family homes.
“In the last six months we’ve replaced and significantly upgraded our security cameras. Our staff are trained in what to look out for and know how to report it if they spot anything suspicious. We ask all staff and visitors to remain vigilant but not alarmed.”
The heightened terror threat has raised the possibility of armed police officers on town streets in the county – although Warwickshire Police has been quick to stress no intelligence of a threat had been detected in the county.
Acting chief constable Martin Evans said: “Across Warwickshire we are committed to doing everything possible to protect our communities from harm. The role Warwickshire Police has within the communities we serve is vital at the best of times, but never more so than now.
“For the next few days our communities will see and feel an enhanced level of visible policing in key locations to help provide them with the additional reassurance they need.
“We are reviewing a number of forthcoming public events that are due to take place in the county and will be ensuring that we provide the right level of visible policing and community reassurance at these.”
