SOMERSET NEWS: We stand shoulder to shoulder with communities against terrorism say police chiefs

THE Chief Constable of Avon and Somerset Police and the Police and Crime Commissioner  have reassured people that they will do all they can to keep the public safe from terrorists.

It follows on from the tragic events in London on Wednesday (March 22, 2017) when the capital suffered a terrorist attack.

Now Chief Constable Andy Marsh and Sue Mounstevens, the PCC for Avon and Somerset, have taken the unusual step of writing an open letter to the public.

“We have all been shocked by the events that have taken place over the last 24 hours and are immensely proud of the bravery shown by PC Keith Palmer and his colleagues,” they wrote.

“Today (Thursday, March 23, 2017), our thoughts are with Keith and his family together with all those affected by this tragic event.

“We have been deeply heartened and are very grateful to everyone who has visited our stations or sent in messages of support today. Thank you, I know every member of the police family feels the warmth of this support as we grieve together.

“In Avon and Somerset we stand shoulder to shoulder with colleagues in the Metropolitan Police Service and the communities we serve.

“All forces have long established and well-rehearsed plans in place to deal with attacks of this nature as illustrated by colleagues in the Metropolitan Police Service yesterday.

“We must remain united in our communities, stand together and not allow terrorism or hatred to prevail.

“We are aware that following incidents such as this, there can be an increase in hate crimes within our communities.”

PHOTO - TOP: Chief Constable Andy Marsh and Police and Crime Commissioner Sue Mounstevens.

They continued: “Over the coming days and weeks we will be reaching out to reassure and strengthen bonds with the communities we serve.

“Let us be clear, there can never be any excuse for hate crime in any shape or form and this criminality will not be tolerated.

“More than ever in these uncertain times we want those who are victims of hate crime to feel confident that we’ll take your reports seriously, protect you and make sure you get all the support you need.

“So, if you are a witness or a victim of hate crime or feel vulnerable please contact someone to report it.

“More people are reporting hate crime than ever before but it is still significantly underreported. Don’t suffer in silence; there are people who can help you. Call the police on 101, Crimestoppers on 0800 555111 or via their website at www.crimestoppers-uk.org, or visit the True Vision website (www.report-it.org.uk) for information, advice and to report online. In an emergency, always dial 999.”

They concluded: “We promise to continue to work together every day to keep you safe.”

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