Armed police guard General Election counts in Staffordshire
Armed police are tonight guarding election counts across Staffordshire as the county’s force responds to recent terror attacks.
Staffordshire Police officers, many armed with rifles, are patrolling counts in Cannock Chase, South Staffordshire and Stafford as the UK’s terror threat remains at severe - meaning an attack is highly likely.
The armed officers were first spotted at Chase Leisure Centre, on Stafford Road in Cannock, as they patrolled the site and guarded entrances. The officers seemed relaxed as they chatted to those inside the hall and drank coffee.
A spokesman for Cannock Chase District Council, which is running the count at the leisure centre, said: “Armed police officers are in attendance at Chase Leisure Centre. This is part of the nationwide counter-terrorism response.”
A mixture of armed and non-armed officers are also set to be on patrol throughout the night at Codsall Leisure centre on Elliotts Lane, where Government Chief Whip Gavin Williamson is defending his seat.
Police were first seen at 9.30pm, with the returning officer advising candidates and agents of an increase in ID checks throughout.
Police officers armed with rifles have been stationed on many of the doors and walked in with staff delivering ballot boxes to the count room.
Officers have also been positioned at the main entrance to the centre itself and at the entrance to the candidate and press room.
The police presence was welcomed by candidates.
Claire Mcilvenna, the Green Party candidate for South Staffordshire, said: “I think this is an appropriate response since the recent attacks. It is reassuring to have them here to keep an eye on what is going on and address any problems.”
Returning officer Dave Heywood added: ““This is in response to recent events in London and Manchester. As a result here this evening you will find you are asked to show your ID and wristbands so please do be prepared to do so.”
The UK has suffered three terror attacks so far this year, including the Manchester Arena bombing where 22 people died after an Ariana Grande concert last month.
Officers are also present at counts in Stafford and Cannock although none have been reported in Wolverhampton, Walsall or Stourbridge.
