Awareness of counter terrorism is being raised by Wiltshire Police this week as part of a national campaign that explains the role the public and businesses can play in combating terrorism.

The increase in the UK terrorism threat level to ‘Severe’ in August this year warns us that there is an increased need to be vigilant and for everyone from law enforcement, and businesses, to the public to work together to keep safe.

Acting Superintendent Deb Smith, Head of Force Operations, said: “This week of action combined with continual work from Wiltshire Police highlights the importance of a joint approach to combat terrorism in Wiltshire.

Counter terrorism is not an issue which can be tackled by Wiltshire Police alone; we need the support of local communities and local businesses.

“We don’t want to scare people but we do need them to understand the threat. We need businesses to check that their security measures are effective and train their staff to detect potential threats and, if necessary, respond to an attack.

“If you know or suspect something, your information could save lives. We will deal with information passed to us carefully and respond sensitively and proportionately.”

This is the first nationwide counter terrorism campaign which brings together all police forces across the UK working with their local regions.

Action by local businesses, partners and members of the public can prevent terrorism in Wiltshire as members of staff in local businesses are often the first people to spot signs that something is wrong.

Wiltshire Police work with partners 24 hours a day, seven days a week to protect Wiltshire from terrorist threats.

Supporting this week Wiltshire Police Counter Terrorism Security Advisors, Licensing Officers, Firearms Licensing officers and the Rural Crime Team will be engaging with local businesses; shopping centres, bars, pubs and clubs, firearm clubs and the farming and agricultural community.

A spokesman said: "With the aim to heighten awareness of the threat from terrorism, provide advice around the reporting of suspicious activity or behaviour, working with farmers and businesses to ensure that fertilisers and chemicals are stored securely.

"The key message is to continue with the personal safety measures we should already be taking. In particular, please:

• Remain alert to the danger of terrorism

• Report anything suspicious to the police on 999 or the anti-terrorist hotline: 0800 789 321

• If your information doesn’t relate to an imminent threat, you can also contact your local police on 101.

"If you suspect it, report it.

"Nobody is better placed to detect something that is out of place in their communities than the people living in them - your information could save lives."

Anyone with information or concerns about suspicious activity can call the confidential Anti-Terrorism hotline on 0800 789 321.

If your information doesn’t relate to an imminent threat, you can also contact Wiltshire Police on the 101 non-emergency number.