Gloucestershire police have today issued the following update on policing in the county following the Manchester bomb attack.

"In response to the recent change in the threat level to critical, armed officers from Gloucestershire Constabulary will be seen out and about in our communities, primarily in Gloucester and Cheltenham.

"This is not based on any change in intelligence or threat for the South West, but the decision has been taken instead to make firearms officers more deployable and visible to our communities.

"We think this is what the public would expect at this time.

"Our priority is to provide as much reassurance to communities as possible but we do recognise that some may feel anxious. The firearms officers will be engaging and talking with people and we would actively encourage you to approach the officers and ask any questions you may have."

Meanwhile, Gloucestershire Constabulary is warning people not to make hoax bomb calls. Assistant Chief Constable Julian Moss says there are consequences:

"We received two separate calls yesterday from telephone numbers in the Gloucestershire area of this nature. We subsequently have arrested the people we believe are responsible," he said.

"There are consequences to this kind of action and they are also a drain on resources at a time of intense pressure for our officers. We are asking the public to help us by not making these types of nuisance calls and allow us to do our job of keeping you safe.

"However, if you do see something you genuinely believe to be suspicious, please dial 999 or report it through the anti-terror hotline on 0800 789 321.

"I'd also like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has sent us messages of support. We are feeding these through to officers and staff and I can say on their behalf they are welcomed at this difficult time."