PATROLS have been stepped up at Wiltshire mosques and other places of worship after terrorist attacks in New Zealand killed at least 49 people.

Dept Ch Con Paul Mills said there link had been identified between the attacks and threats in UK.

"There is no identified heightened threat," he said.

“However, we are aware of the impact incidents of this enormity can have and the concern that is no doubt being felt among local faith communities in particular.

“As a result, we have increased reassurance patrols at places of worship across Wiltshire today, specifically at key prayer times.

“It is really important that we maintain a visible policing presence within Wiltshire to ensure our residents feel safe and this increased community engagement will continue over the coming days.”

Junab Ali, Swindon’s first Muslim mayor, condemned the violence: “You just don’t have the words. This is a place where people feel the most safe, whether its a mosque or temple, or whatever, where you can feel at ease.

“My heart just goes out to all the victims and their families.

“The most important thing is that other people and fanatics don’t take this up and think this gives them an excuse for copycat attacks.

“There is no justification for this kind of behaviour. These people are pure evil, criminal and terrorists.It doesn’t matter what their nationality or beliefs are.

"They do not represent the human race at all.”