A deputy chief constable at Warwickshire Police has told residents to stay vigilant as the UK terrorism threat level has increased from substantial to severe.

Following the murder of MP Sir David Amess in October, and the events in Liverpool over the weekend the terrorism threat has been raised by the home office meaning that an attack is now 'highly likely'.

But DCC Alex Franklin Smith of Warwickshire Police has reassured residents that this decision has not been made because another particular attack is expected.

"The change in the threat status is in response to those recent events and is a precautionary measure, not based on any specific threat," he said.

"But we do all need to be vigilant.

"Warwickshire Police will continue to be visible in our communities, and will be working with partner agencies, local businesses and faith groups to share information and advice on security, what to be on the look-out for and how to report any concerns.

"Communities defeat terrorism, and we are asking that the public remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the police.

"Our efforts can only succeed with the support of the public, and communities across the country have shown time and time again that they are united in their rejection of any who seek to divide us."