TRAVEL warnings have been issued over recent weeks to US citizens intending to head to Europe following revelations of a terrorist plot to attack targets in the UK and on the continent.
The alert does not mention a specific country, but does warn of possible attacks on public transport and at tourist attractions in Europe.
The current threat level from international terrorism issued by the Home Office is severe, which means that a terrorist attack is ‘highly likely’.
But Cheshire police spokeswoman Jacqui Hanson said: “We have had no intelligence to suggest that we need to adjust security within Cheshire.”
Nevertheless, the general threat is always on the minds of bosses at Cheshire’s tourist attractions.
Nick Fry, of Chester Cathedral said: “We are aware that there is an increased security threat on the UK mainland and, as a significant establishment and a place of gathering, we always ask our staff to be vigilant to any suspicious activity, behaviour or unattended items.
“Our greatest wish is to remain open and accessible to offer a warm welcome to all our visitors and we would not wish to take any disproportionate action to a threat which is not directly evident.
“We do of course hope that visitors the Cathedral will feel able to report any bona fide security concerns to a member of the Cathedral team.”
A spokesman for Chester’s Grosvenor hotel said: “The safety, welfare and security of our guests and staff alike are of paramount importance. We are aware of the heightened security risk and we continue to be vigilant.”
Rachael Wheatley, of Chester Zoo, said: “The security of the zoo’s staff and visitors is a priority and a high level of vigilance is always maintained on site.”
Paul Reynolds, sales and marketing executive at Blue Planet Aquarium, said: “The recent threats did encourage us to discuss our security arrangements but we are always vigilant and staff are aware of what to do in the event of an incident.”
Colin Wilding, centre manager of Cheshire Oaks Designer Outlet, said: “We are aware of the announcement that American tourists have been informed that the UK is now on a high terrorism alert. Š
“We have excellent security measures in place and we are working closely with our security team to ensure that all the necessary procedures are undertaken.”
A spokesman for Arriva Trains Wales at Chester Station said: “Arriva Trains Wales has robust procedures in place regarding security and our staff are trained to be vigilant at all times.
“We work closely with the British Transport Police to ensure security at stations and on board trains and actively encourage members of the public to report any suspicious activity.”
Resources director at Cheshire West and Chester Council Julie Gill said: “Security levels at Council buildings across West Cheshire are regularly reviewed in response to advice from police and national security sources. We are aware of the current threat levels and all members of staff are being asked to be vigilant and to report anything they feel may be suspicious.”
