With the UK terror threat level being lowered to 'severe', Suffolk's Chief Constable Gareth Wilson has reassured residents that policing will remain highly visible for this weekend.

Despite the Joint Terrorism Analysis Centre lowering the threat level this morning (Saturday), meaning an attack is highly likely but not imminently expected, armed officers – who have been deployed in key locations around the county, including Lowestoft town centre over the past two days – will continue to patrol over the Bank Holiday weekend.?

It is expected that they will return to usual policing levels on Monday evening (May 29).

Chief Constable Gareth Wilson said: 'We have, as other police forces across the country have, taken the practical and precautionary decision to retain heightened patrols until the end of the Bank Holiday.?

'We will continue to review this proposed reduction of a visible presence and even when it does happen, it does not mean a reduction in service. We are here to protect the public and will do everything in our power to do so.

'Rest assured, the threat level and our response are constantly under review. If we feel it necessary to deploy specially trained officers to areas of heightened risk again in the coming weeks we will.

'I would continue to ask the public to remain calm but alert – if you see anything which causes you concern, then call the police immediately. Look out for anything that seems out of place, we would rather investigate concerns which come to nothing, rather than hear an incident could have been prevented.'

The latest guidance on recognising the terrorist threat and remaining vigilant can be accessed via www.nactso.gov.uk

To report any suspicious activity or behaviour call 0800 789 321 or in an emergency dial 999.