Increased armed patrols at key locations in Kent and Essex
The number of patrols armed with tasers and firearms is to increase around key locations to counteract terrorist threats, according to the Kent and Essex police forces. Some of the locations specified include Canterbury Cathedral, the Port of Dover and London Southend Airport. Despite receiving no indication of any direct threats, a spokesperson for the forces claimed the increased patrols would help the areas to be "adequately prepared".

Two police forces have increased the frequency of armed patrols as part of efforts to counter the terror threat facing Britain.

Kent Police said firearms and Taser patrols will be increased around Canterbury Cathedral, the Port of Dover, Bluewater shopping centre and other key locations.

Meanwhile, Essex Police announced that armed officers are to be deployed at sites including Lakeside shopping centre and London Southend Airport.

Both forces stressed there was no intelligence to suggest a direct threat, but said the extra resources would ensure they are "adequately prepared".

The UK's official threat level for international terrorism stands at severe, meaning an attack is seen as highly likely.

Kent Police Deputy Chief Constable Paul Brandon said: "We continue to regularly review the threat levels in the county in consultation with the Home Office to ensure we provide the most appropriate protection for the people of Kent."

He added: "We want the public to know what we're doing to protect them and not to panic if they see officers with firearms or Tasers on patrol."

Image: Kent Police urged residents not to panic if they see officers with Tasers

Assistant Chief Constable Carl O'Malley, of Essex Police, said officers are "working around the clock across the county to protect people from harm".

He added: "That work includes countering the threat posed by terrorism.

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"There is no cause for anyone to change their plans or how they go about their lawful business and if you see the patrols it does not mean there is a cause to worry or panic."

The announcements come as police firearms resources are stepped up across the UK.

A drive to boost the firearms capacity was launched in the wake of the Paris attacks in November, with forces training hundreds of extra personnel.

Matthew Scott, Kent's police and crime commissioner, said: "I have supported the existing plan to use money raised by the council tax precept this year to increase the force's firearms capability and I hope these visible patrols will provide additional reassurance to the public.

"In the event of any serious incident, it is important that Kent Police has the resources it needs - including firearms officers - to provide a suitable response."